Are There Toucans In The Tambopata Rainforest?

One of the most recognisable birds on the planet, Toucans are known for their giant colorful beak and eye-catching plumage.

Almost all travelers who head into the Amazon Jungle (including that of Tambopata) want to try and see these birds, and remain one of the requested species to spot on jungle tours in Peru. 

In this guide we’ll cover everything you need to know about Toucans in the Tambopata Rainforest. This includes how to best spot them, as well as other interesting facts about this flamboyant bird species.

Are There Toucans In The Tambopata Rainforest?

Quick Answer: Yes Toucans are also endemic and found throughout the Tambopata Rainforest, and it’s possible to spot them when on a tour here!

Toucans are primarily found in the Amazon Rainforest, and are native to various different Latin American countries such as Peru, Bolivia, Panama, Brazil and Colombia. It’s no different here in the Tambopata Region of Peru, where the dense jungle foliage and high-swinging trees make for perfect perching spots.

Overall Toucans are yet another incredible species of bird that we can spot here in the Tambopata Rainforest, along with Macaws and Parakeets that are often found feeding within the Collpa Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick.

Facts About Toucans In The Peruvian Amazon Jungle

Although there are over 40 species of Toucans, they all have a very similar appearance. Their infamously long beak is the most tell-tale sign of this bird, which can measure up to four times the size of their head.

As a result Toucans have a long tongue, which helps them catch food. Their diets usually consist of fruits, berries, insects and small animals such as lizards and rodents. 

Whilst their brightly-coloured feathers are a delight for us to witness, this actually helps them to blend in well with the surrounding exotic plants of the rainforest. This helps them to avoid detection from predators such as Harpy Eagles, Boa Constrictors and Jaguars.

How To Spot Toucans In The Tambopata Rainforest

The very best way to spot Toucans is to head on a jungle tour, and ideally one that ventures deeper into the rainforest. In the Tambopata region this means joining a multi-day tour that explores further away from the city of Puerto Maldonado.

Toucans prefer quiet and safe places to rest and live, and as so the treetops of the rainforest are the perfect place to see them. Climbing a canopy tower is a great way to spot them from above, however you’ll also want to keep your eyes-peeled during the boat rides.

We highly recommend joining our multi-day Tambopata tour if you are looking to see Toucans and other colorful birds. We head deep into the jungle to sites such as Collpa Chuncho and Sandoval Lake, where conditions are most optimal for them.

Overview Of Toucans In The Tambopata Rainforest

And that’s all for this guide on whether you can spot Toucans in the Tambopata Rainforest.

These colorful birds are a real delight to spot when in the Amazon Jungle, who are often seen resting on treetops and come in a variety of bright colors. We can also see them here within the Tambopata Jungle, however your best bet will be to find a longer tour so you can explore deeper into the jungle where they are most abundant.

Be sure to read our Ultimate Tambopata Jungle Guide to learn more about this incredible rainforest, and how to get the most out of a trip here.