The toco toucan is the classic toucan, with its enormous orange bill. It is common in the savannas and woodlands of Brazil, including the Pantanal.
Interesting facts
- It is the largest toucan species.
- The bill is light because it is made of keratin over a honeycomb of bone.
- The bill makes up about a third of the bird’s length.
- Toucans sleep with their bills tucked over their backs.
- They are important seed dispersers.
- Unlike many toucans, the toco prefers open habitats.
Behaviour
Toucans move in pairs or small groups, hopping through trees to pluck fruit with their long bills.
Breeding and young
They nest in tree holes and lay 2 to 4 eggs, which both parents incubate.
Threats and conservation
Widespread; local threats include habitat loss and capture for the pet trade.
Where to see it
- Pantanal, Brazil
- Iguazú Falls, Argentina and Brazil
- Chapada dos Guimarães, Brazil
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
Where to see the toco toucan
Pantanal Jaguar Safari: The Best Place on Earth to See Wild JaguarsBrazil's Pantanal offers the best chance on Earth to watch wild jaguars. How boat-based safaris work, when to…
Mindo Cloud Forest Birding GuideJust two hours from Quito, Mindo's cloud forests offer dozens of hummingbirds, antpittas and a spectacular cock-of-the-rock lek.
Birding in Colombia: The World’s Birdiest CountryColombia has more bird species than any other country, around 1,900. The best regions, endemics and how to…
