Return of Bird of the Week: Keel-billed Toucan

Toucans are a signature bird species of the Neotropics. Their large size, spectacular bill, flamboyant tails and noisy calls make them immediately identifiable and immense fun to see. There are about 31(!) species of Toucan. The Keel-billed Toucan ranges from southern Mexico to northern Columbia, but they are most common in Costa Rica and Panama. The specialized bill is both lighter and more powerful than it looks; it’s adapted to crack open fruits and nuts. The colors are a sexual characteristic. In addition to fruits and nuts, Keel-billeds feed on small vertebrates, including snakes and lizards, and larger insects. They…