kids encyclopedia robot

Green aracari facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Green aracari
Pteroglossus viridis -Philadelphia Zoo, Pennsylvania, USA -female-8a.jpg
Female at Philadelphia Zoo, Pennsylvania, USA
Conservation status
CITES Appendix II (CITES)
Scientific classification
Genus:
Pteroglossus
Species:
viridis
Pteroglossus viridis map.svg
Synonyms

The green araçari (Pteroglossus viridis), is a toucan, a near-passerine bird. It is found in the lowland forests of northeastern South America (the Guiana Shield), in the northeast Amazon Basin, the Guianas and the eastern Orinoco River drainage of Venezuela. At 30–40 cm. (12–16 in) long and weighing 110–160 grams (3.9–5.7 oz.), it is the smallest aracari in its range, and among the smallest members of the toucan family.

Taxonomy and systematics

Pteroglossus viridis at the Denver Zoo-2012 03 12 0992
Males differ from females in having a black hood, but have the same characteristic bill pattern. Denver Zoo, Denver, Colorado.

The green aracari was originally classified in the genus Ramphastos. The species is named for the green feathers covering its back.

Description

Males' crowns are black, while females' are reddish brown.

Behaviour and ecology

Breeding

Breeding occurs from February to June. It nests in tree cavities, producing 2–4 white eggs. The parents cooperate in rearing their young.

Food and feeding

Its diet consists mostly of fruit, including the fruits of Cecropia trees and the palm Oenocarpus bacaba. The serrated edges of the green aracari's large bill help the bird to grip and gather fruit. Insects are also an occasional part of the diet, giving the birds protein.

Pets

In captivity it is the most frequently bred member of the toucan family and is the most popular as a tame hand-fed pet. It requires a large cage and toys to prevent boredom due to its active nature, and a high-fruit diet. When all these requirements are met it is an affectionate companion for many years.

kids search engine
Green aracari Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.