Where does the Toco Toucan live?

The Toco Toucan lives in specific habitats and regions. Knowing where, and when, to look improves your chances of a successful sighting.

Biomes

Tropical and subtropical lowlands, including open woodlands, savannas, cerrado, gallery forests, and forest edges. They avoid dense, humid primary rainforests.

Geographic range

Central and eastern South America, including southeastern Peru, northern Bolivia, northern Argentina, eastern and central Paraguay, and eastern Brazil. A disjunct population also exists in the Guianas.

Preferred environments

Prefers semi-open areas with scattered large trees for nesting and roosting, often near water sources. They are frequently seen in plantations, parks, and even suburban areas with suitable tree cover.

Elevation range

Typically found from sea level up to 1,750 meters (5,740 ft), but most common below 1,000 meters (3,300 ft).

Where to look

Field tips

1. Look for movement in the canopy. Their large size and bright bill make them relatively easy to spot once you locate them. Scan the upper branches of large trees.
2. Listen for their calls. Their loud, croaking calls are often the first indication of their presence. Follow the sound to locate the birds.
3. Observe fruiting trees. Toco Toucans are primarily frugivorous, so checking trees laden with ripe fruit is a good strategy, especially early in the morning or late afternoon.
4. Be patient and quiet. While conspicuous, they can be wary. Move slowly and quietly to avoid startling them.

Migration

Resident throughout its range; no significant migratory movements. They may undertake local movements in search of fruiting trees.

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