The Black-necked Aracari, one of the larger aracaris, is found in the lowland rainforests of northern and central South America, particularly within the Amazon Basin. With its vividly colored plumage, prominent bicolored bill, and distinctive black neck, it is a striking member of the aracari group. Highly social and often noisy, Black-necked Aracaris travel in small flocks and are frequently seen foraging in the canopy. Their playful interactions, including bill clacking and group preening, make them a lively presence in tropical forests.

Scientific Name: Pteroglossus aracari
Range: Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname and Venezuela
IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern
CITES Listing: Appendix II

Plumage: Glossy black head and neck, yellow belly with a central red band, red rump, and olive-green back and tail. Females have an all black head while males have chestnut brown ear patches, generally only visible in direct sunlight.
Eyes: Dark eyes with black eye-ring
Bill: Ivory-colored upper bill and black lower bill

Length: 14 to 18 inches (36 to 46 centimeters)
Weight: 8 to 11 ounces (227 to 312 grams)

Vocalization: Very vocal, with high-pitched, sharp “seek” or “pik” notes, often repeated rapidly

Breeding: Nests in tree cavities, laying 2-4 eggs, with both parents incubating and caring for the young