Guyana Toucanet

Guyana Toucanet

Description

The Guianan toucanet, or Guyana toucanet (Selenidera piperivora) is a species of bird in the Ramphastidae family found in the north-eastern Amazon rainforest.

It is found in north-western Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, and Venezuela. Its natural habitat is tropical humid lowland forests. It is 25 cm (10 in) long and weighs 110-165 grams (3.9-5.8 oz.)

Scientific Name

Selenidera Culik

Country Of Origin

 

Venezuela, Guyana and Surinam

Size

 

10 inches (including 3 inch beak)

Life Expectancy

 

16 years

Noise Level

 

Moderate

Talk / Trick Ability

Good

Characteristics

The Guyana toucanet is dimorphic: the male has a black head and breast, and the female has a gray breast, black crown and chestnut nape. Both have red and black beaks, red irises, blue skin around the eye and yellow ear patches. Guyana toucanets can be hand-tamed, particularly when hand-fed as babies.

The female Guyana toucanet is often regarded as one of the prettiest of the toucanets. Like other toucans, this species is intelligent, active, playful and affectionate. They enjoy learning and performing tricks and enjoy spending time with their owners.

 

Behavior / Health Concerns

Guyana toucanets primarily eat fruit in the wild, and the same should be replicated in our homes. Because citric acid facilitates the absorption of iron, it is recommended not to give Guyana toucanet any citric fruits. In addition to a wide variety of fruits, their diet should be supplemented with a low-iron protein source. Because they tend to be territorial and sometimes even aggressive with other bird species, it is not advisable to place Guyana toucanet in a mixed aviary.

 

Expert Advice

“The Guyana toucanet is now extremely common and readily bred. It is also a loud bird compared to other species of toucanets and aracaris.”

Jerry Jennings, Emerald Forest Bird Gardens