D’Arnaud’s Barbet
Description
This is a small bird that grows to about 8 inches. They are plump-looking, with large heads. Their heavy bill is fringed with bristles.
Diet / Feeding
These mostly solitary birds eat a variety of seeds and fruits, including figs. They will also visit plantations and feed on cultivated fruit and vegetables. Fruit is eaten whole and indigestible material such as seed pits regurgitated later. They are believed to be important agents in seed dispersal.
In addition to seeds and fruits, they also eat a wide range of insects are taken, including ants, cicadas, dragonflies, crickets, locusts, beetles, moths, mantids, as well as scorpions and centipedes. On occasion, they may also feed on lizards, frogs and geckos.
Nesting / Breeding
They nest in vertical tunnels two to three feet into the ground with a sideways and upward turn that leads to the nest chamber. The hen usually lays between 2 to 4 eggs that are incubated for 13 - 15 days. Nesting duties are shared by both parents.
Thoughts from Will Rogers
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