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Keel-billed toucans are quite common and well-known birds. Their huge, colorfull bills make them look very front-heavy and their flight seems awkward, but it is quite fast (in fact, the bill is hollow and very light). They are primarily fruit-eaters but are also very effective predators of eggs and baby birds. Both of these toucans were photographed in Gamboa, Panama. The one at right has siezed and killed a clay-colored robin nestling and is attempting to eat it (an awkward process as the bill and feet lack the power of typical raptors for tearing up prey). We were alerted to the bird by the frantic alarm calls of the robin parents and several other small birds. |
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