Scientific name: Ramphastos toco
Very striking frugivorous bird that combines the use of tall trees with clearings and open areas.
What Toco Toucan is like in its natural environment, with the climate, shelters and resources it needs.
The toco toucan is one of the most emblematic toucans of South America, visible at forest edges and open wooded landscapes.
Uses combinations of tall trees, palms and clearings, taking advantage of trunk holes for nesting and exposed branches for resting and watching.
Moves in small groups or pairs, flying between trees with short wing beats. Emits loud vocalizations to communicate.
Its beak, besides serving to manipulate food and objects, helps regulate body temperature thanks to its blood irrigation.
In much of its range considered relatively common, although habitat loss and local capture may affect regional populations.
Striking details about Toco Toucan that show its biology and ecology in a different way.
Aspects to consider if Toco Toucan is kept in captivity at specialized centers.
Needs large aviaries, especially in height, with robust branches and platforms for perching and moving freely.
Requires varied fruit diet, supplements and protein sources, plus veterinary monitoring of beak and general condition.
Not a close-handling bird; benefits from enclosures where it can choose distance from people and other animals.
General information aimed at professional facilities and authorized centers. Not intended to promote private keeping of wildlife without proper training and permits.
Enclosures usually combine natural vegetation with resistant structures, avoiding meshes or elements that could injure the beak.
Work with calibrated fruit diets to avoid obesity or deficits, also using food enrichment.
Direct interactions are limited to veterinary handling and maintenance tasks, minimizing physical contact.
Their presence in collections should be accompanied by educational messages about forest and savanna conservation.
This information has an educational purpose and does not replace the advice of specialized professionals or consultation of current wildlife and animal welfare legislation.