The toco toucan is such an iconic species
that when you see it you can easily visualise Neotropical forests. The arrival
of one as a patient in the veterinary hospital where I study prompted me to
research it. An internet search produced some interesting sites that take a scientific
approach to the species.
Conservation Status
The Cornell Lab of Ornithology explains the
Toco toucan’s status according to the IUCN. The species is of Least Concern.
Conservation Biology
Other discussions centre on whether the
species’ captive population is self-sustaining. I would think that zoo studbook
keepers would be able to comment on that. It would be interesting to know if
any Brazilian zoological gardens are breeding the species regularly. And for
Conservation Biologists there is a very interesting account given on the
Encyclopedia of Life site.
Ecology
It is noted that Toco Toucans may predate the
eggs or chicks of the endangered Hyacinth Macaw, which is interesting because
this area from where I type this is close to this species’ Pantanal stronghold.
Hyacinth Macaws nest in cavities in the Manduvi tree. The Manduvi depends on
the seed-dispersing activities of the Toco Toucan. So although the Toucan is a
predator of the Hyacinth Macaw, the Macaw needs the Toucan indirectly for the
provision of nest cavities.
Avicultural and Veterinary Aspects.
Care needs to be taken to ensure that birds
receive adequate iron in their diet. They should not be given rats or mice
because of the risk of bacterial infection.
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