Graeme Teague Photography

Keel-billed Toucan - eating!

Caption: Keel-billed Toucan - eating!
Scientific name: Ramphastos sulfuratus
Location: Costa Rica
Copyright: © Basco / gtphoto 832-526-1123 gtphoto@shaw.ca
AGPix ID: AGPix_GrTePh23_1277
Digital Original
Comments: A keel-billed toucan displays his eating skills - toss and swallow - Costa Rica! The Keel-billed Toucan also known as Sulfur-breasted Toucan or Rainbow-billed Toucan, is a colorful Latin American member of the toucan family. It is the national bird of Belize. The diet of Keel-billed Toucans consists mostly of a wide range of fruit but may also include insects, eggs, nestlings and small reptiles. The bill, surprisingly dexterous, allows this toucan to utilize a large variety of fruit that might not otherwise be reached. When eating the fruit, it uses its bill to dissect the fruit, and then tosses its head back to swallow the fruit whole. Spectacular image by award winning photographer Gregory Basco - part of his stunning collection available through GTPhoto. GTPhoto is a wonderful knowledge/photo agency with all award winning photographers, filmmakers, authors, scientists & guides covering our world with wildlife, birds and nature absolute specialties.