- general description
- appearance
- the yellow-eared barbet is a medium-sized bird with predominantly green plumage.
- it has a distinctive yellow patch around the ears, which gives it its name.
- the throat and upper chest are brown, and there are red markings around the eyes and on the forehead.
- the beak is large, pale, and strong, well-suited for excavating wood.
- the eyes are dark, and the legs and feet are grayish.
- size
- measures about 24-27 cm in length.
- typically weighs around 100-140 grams.
- behavior
- known for its loud, repetitive calls that are a common sound in its habitat.
- often seen solitary or in pairs, foraging in the upper canopy of trees.
- uses its strong beak to excavate nest holes in tree trunks and branches.
- habitat
- range
- found in parts of southeast asia, including thailand, malaysia, indonesia (sumatra, borneo, and java), and brunei.
- environment
- inhabits tropical and subtropical forests, often in lowland and montane areas.
- prefers dense tree cover and areas with abundant fruiting trees.
- diet
- primarily frugivorous, feeding on a variety of fruits and berries.
- also consumes insects and other small invertebrates, especially during the breeding season.
- breeding
- nesting
- excavates nest cavities in dead or decaying trees, often choosing a site with soft wood.
- the nest is typically a simple hole without additional lining.
- reproduction
- breeding season varies depending on the region but generally occurs during the warmer months when food is abundant.
- female lays 2-4 eggs, which are incubated for about 14-16 days.
- both parents participate in feeding the chicks until they fledge.
- conservation status
- currently not considered endangered or vulnerable.
- listed as least concern by the iucn due to its wide range and stable population, though habitat loss could pose future threats.
- interesting facts
- the yellow-eared barbet’s distinctive calls are a common sound in its forest habitat and are often used to locate the bird.
- its strong beak is not only used for feeding but also plays a crucial role in creating nesting sites, which are also used by other species.
- the barbet’s role in seed dispersal helps maintain the health and diversity of its forest ecosystem, as it spreads the seeds of the fruits it eats.