H4_W3_001

Date: May-22

Location: Costa Rica

Did you know?

The Blue-crowned Motmot, scientifically known as Momotus momota, is a captivating bird species found in the tropical regions of Central and South America. With its distinctive appearance and iconic tail feathers, the Blue-crowned Motmot is a true symbol of the neotropical forests. Blue-crowned Motmots are cavity nesters, excavating burrows in banks or termite mounds. They lay their eggs and raise their young in these underground nests. Conservation efforts aimed at protecting the forests and preserving their habitat are crucial for the Blue-crowned Motmot's survival. Deforestation and habitat fragmentation pose threats to their populations. By promoting sustainable land management practices and establishing protected areas, we can help ensure the continued presence of the Blue-crowned Motmot and appreciate its beauty in the natural world.

About the picture

The Blue-crowned Motmot displays a stunning combination of colors. It has a green body, a blue crown, and a broad black mask across its eyes. Its most notable feature is its long, racket-tipped tail, which has bare shafts that are colored in shades of blue and green. These birds inhabit the forest canopies, where they perch on branches and scan their surroundings for insects, small reptiles, and fruits. They are known for their characteristic behavior called "raquetting," in which they swing their tail back and forth, creating a distinct sound and displaying their tail feathers to communicate and establish their territory.

Fun Fact

The motmot, a bird native to Central and South America, is known for its distinctive racket-tipped tail feathers that make a buzzing sound in flight.