The Keel-billed Toucan is scientifically known as Ramphastos sulfuratus. This strikingly colorful bird is also the National Bird of Belize.

The toucan’s most distinguished feature is its prolonged bill that is coloured with a mixture of green, red, yellow, or orange and is formed from a substance called keratin which results in the bill being very light but exceptionally strong.

Small and playful, this beautiful bird is extremely social and is rarely spotted alone as it usually travels in small flocks with 6 to 15 other toucans.

The above photo was snapped during an early morning bird watching tour at Chaa Creek.

Keel-billed Toucans live in the holes of tree trunks and sleep in groups with their beaks and tail tucked under their bodies to create more room for its relatives.

Photo taken by Naturalist Guide: David Juarez