Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Toco toucan
Scientific name: Toucan toco
IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: RAMPHASTIDAE
Group: Birds
Shyness: Tolerant
Safe distance: 20 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.02-30.06
Gestation: 16-20 jours
Births: 01.03-31.07
Habitat:
Tropical humid forests and woodland savannas
Description:
The toco toucan is the largest toucan species (55–65 cm long), with black plumage and a white throat topped by a large bright orange bill. It inhabits tropical humid forests and woodland savannas in South America, feeding on fruits, insects, and small vertebrates. During the breeding season (February to June), it nests in tree cavities and pairs perform aerial display flights.
Recommended lens:
>=400 mm
Photography tips:
Photograph the toco toucan preferably at dawn or dusk using a telephoto lens of ≥400 mm from a concealed elevated hide to capture its flight and isolate its contrasting plumage. Use slight low-angle shots to emphasize its bill, and be patient: the bird may remain motionless in the canopy.
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