Toco Toucan

The toco toucan, also known as the common toucan or giant toucan, is the largest and probably the best known species in the toucan family. It is found in semi-open habitats throughout a large part of central and eastern South America. It is a common attraction in zoos. A toucan can live for up to 20 years. The Toco Toucan is the largest - they weigh 2 pounds and can grow up to 25 inches long. Their bill (beak) accounts for half of their length. Their colourful bill makes them one of the world's most popular birds. The toucan's beak appears quite heavy, but is actually light. It is hollow, made of protein keratin with thin rods of bone to support it and is similar in consistency to a hard sponge. Its tongue is like a feather that is used to catch and flick food down its throat.

Scientific name: Ramphastos toco

Conservation status: Least Concern (Population decreasing)

Mass: 1.4 lbs

Length: 2 ft.

Height: 25 inches tall

Family: Ramphastidae

Kingdom: Animalia