Pteroglossus torquatus

(Collared Aracari)      ORDER: Piciformes  |   FAMILY: Ramphastidae

I had hoped to spot a Toucan when we planned our trip to Belize and my wish came true.  We were originally scheduled to go to a different Mayan ruin, but our guide suggested we visit Cahal Pech, which is near San Ignacio, Belize.  We agreed and I am so glad we did, for we sighted many Collared Aracari there.  Their range is from Mexico to Columbia where they are found in the canopy of the rainforest. 

As they are omnivorous, their diet is diverse consiting of fledglings, eggs, insects, and fruits.  The bill of the Collared Aracari, while sturdy for eating fruit, is also thin and lightweight for flight.