Collared Aracari (Pteroglossus torquatus torquatus)

24 January 2009, Rancho Naturalista, Costa Rica The English name is sometimes spelled "Araçari" and is pronounced with a soft "c" - är-u-sär'-ee. Some authors call this bird the Spot-breasted Aracari. Aracaris and Toucans are bizarre looking Neotropical birds in the family Ramphastidae, characterized by their huge banana-shaped bills. They feed mostly on fruit, but also eat insects and the occasional lizard. They are related to Woodpeckers, and like them, roost and nest in tree cavities. They maintain family groups with up to three helpers at the nest and groups of up to six will roost at night together in a tree cavity, folding their tails up over their backs. Notice the oblong-shaped pupil which is formed by a black spot on the otherwise yellow iris behind the actual pupil. Males and female are alike in plumage, but males usually have somewhat longer bills. This species ranges from southern Mexico to Ecuador. This is the most northerly nominate race which has a maroon band on the nape and a prominent dark chest spot. It also has ragged serrations on its bill. Panasonic Lumix LZ5 / Nikon FieldScope 3 / 30X WA hand-held (no adapter)