The bright colors of the Toco may seem to us to make it stand out; however, God designed it with those bright colors as part of His creativity and beauty in creation. Since the Fall of man, these colors seem to help this species blend into its habitat. Its dark body allows it to hide in the shadows of trees and its bright colors are easily overlooked as flowers or fruit among the trees. Even though its beak appears heavy, it is actually designed with lightweight material, containing a number of air pockets.
Keel-billed toucan, white-throated toucan
CLASS: Aves (birds)
ORDER: Piciformes (woodpeckers and relatives)
FAMILY: Ramphastidae (toucan)
GENUS/SPECIES: Ramphastos toco
Size: About 25 in (0.6 m) long; beak up to 7.5 in (0.2 m)
Weight: About 18–30 oz (0.5–0.8 kg)
Original Diet: Plants
Present Diet: Fruit and some insects; occasionally, birds, lizards, and eggs
Habitat: Mainly riverine edges of forest and forest patches in savannas in eastern and central South America
Make your next visit to the zoo more than just fun—make it factual and fascinating too! You could even start a personal “creation zoo tours” ministry. Featuring more than 100 animals, our long-awaited Zoo Guide includes beautiful pictures and explores the amazing facts and design features that point to our awesome Creator. Excellent gift for any one who loves animals!
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