In Which the Toucan Can

The toucan is one of the most recognizable birds in the world. Known for its large brightly colored bill and the variety of sounds it can make, this bird is also the beloved mascot of the popular cereal Froot Loops. (A personal favorite, I must admit.)

Toucans are native to the South American rainforests, and there are over 40 different species.

The color is, in fact, an effective camouflage in the rainforest, as it allows the toucan to hide amongst the lush flora and foliage without being detected. Their bills can be found not only in yellow and orange, but also red, green, and even black. The national bird of Belize is a species called the rainbow-billed toucan which involves multiple colors.

They typically find shelter in hollowed trees, for example one which has been tackled by a woodpecker. Their beaks are softer than most birds, so they aren't very useful for digging or fighting. But, like a dinner knife, the edges of their beaks are slightly serrated so they can gnaw and cut.

When Europeans first discovered the New World, it is thought that these may have been among the first local animals they may have seen.

Our friend the toucan is a very noisy little birdie. In fact, unlike most birds that will be more vocal in the morning and get quieter as the day progresses, the toucan will actually increase its voice and become louder, preferring to engage in chatter later in the afternoon. The name "toucan" comes from the main sound that it makes, but they can also make clicking, growling, barking, and even braying sounds, and it is said that their "singing" resembles the sound of croaking frogs.

What do you think of the toucan?