The Emerald Toucanet is the nominate subspecies for the broader Aulacorhynchus prasinus (Northern Emerald Toucanet) species complex. It is a small, vibrant green toucan with a white throat, black and yellow bill, and chestnut undertail coverts and tail tips. All Emeralds are known for being social, gregarious birds that often form small flocks of up to ten individuals. They are active, spending most of their time in the canopy of humid forests, moving through the trees with direct, rapid flight. They are known for their "follow-the-leader" style of movement through the forest, traveling in groups. In captivity, they can be aggressive and territorial, so keeping them separate from other birds is often recommended.

Scientific Name: Aulacorhynchus prasinus prasinus
Range: Southeastern Mexico, Belize, Guatemala
IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern
CITES Listing: Not listed

Plumage: Bright, grass-green body with a white throat, chestnut undertail coverts, and chestnut-tipped tail
Eyes: Dark brown eyes surrounded by dark charcoal skin
Bill: Black mandible with primarily yellow maxilla, though amount of yellow varies by region, and small black patch near the nostrils.

Length: 11 to 15 inches (30 to 37 centimeters)
Weight: 5.3 to 8.5 ounces (150 to 240 grams)

Vocalization: Low, frog-like notes, and various croaking or barking sounds

Breeding: Nests in tree cavities, laying 3-4 eggs, with both parents incubating and caring for the young