Our Animals

Curl-crested Aracari Pteroglossus beauharnaisii

FUN FACT

This species has very unusual curlicue feathers on top of its head that make it look like it has a perm!

The Curl-crested Aracari is an eye-catching small toucan found in lowland forests in parts of Peru, Brazil, and Bolivia. It is very colorful, with bright yellow, red, and green feathers and a multi-colored bill. Its most distinctive feature is the glossy black curlicue feathers atop its head. They eat mostly fruits but occasionally will eat the eggs of other birds. This species is not globally threatened but is vulnerable to human hunting activities.

Curl-crested Aracari

Pteroglossus beauharnaisii
Neotropical

Habitat

Occurs in lowland wet forest, forest edges, and clearings, and lower hill forest

Diet

Fruits; also eggs and nestlings of other birds

Status

Least Concern

Breeding

The breeding information about this species is almost completely unknown! Curl-crested Aracaris have been observed bowing and calling in courtship displays. It is thought that they may nest in groups.

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The National Aviary is home to more than 500 birds and other animals representing 150 species; some of which live in behind-the-scenes habitats. To enhance our guests’ educational experience, and with regard to individual bird preferences, different species may spend time in various public-facing habitats.

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