WHY IS THE TOUCAN IN DANGER OF EXTINCTION? - BIOLOGY - 2025

The toucan is in danger of extinction, mainly due to deforestation, environmental pollution and illegal hunting to sell them as an exotic bird. This bird lives in the rainforests of South and Central America, and is very important for this ecosystem, as it helps disperse the seeds of the fruits and berries they eat.

Toucans are distantly related to woodpeckers, and are distinguished by their large, colorful, and light beaks. These peaks can be black, blue, brown, green, red, white, yellow, or a combination of colors. They have short, thick necks, and their size ranges from 18 to 65 cm long.

Causes of the danger of extinction of the toucan

These tropical birds belong to the Ramphastidae family. There are about 40 types of toucans.

Some of the smaller ones are known as tucancillo or tucanetas. On the other hand, the toco toucan (Ramphastos toco) holds the Guinness record for the largest bird species, weighing 876 g. and measure up to 54 cm.

It is a bird of singular beauty and exotic character. Unfortunately, in South America it is one of 161 species of birds that are in danger of extinction. Their greatest threat is the destruction of their habitat.

Deforestation and reduction of tropical forests

Tropical forests have been undergoing a reduction process, mainly due to deforestation caused by human activities.

There are several factors that affect this deforestation: agricultural exploitation, urban development, extraction of raw materials for paper, among others.

This destruction of the natural habitat affects the survival of toucans, as well as that of other species. In Peru, for example, the population of yellow-browed toucanets is very small.

Coca growers have taken over its forests, making this toucan species the only endangered species list in that area, but many others are being threatened.

Environmental pollution

To a large extent, the drastic modifications of wildlife habitat have been caused by environmental pollution.

Historically, man has viewed air, water, and soil as receptacles for waste, showing little regard for the ecological consequences of his actions.

As a result, wildlife populations suffer severe losses or have even faced extinction.

In this sense, the toucan does not escape this reality. For example, methylmercury contained in nearby lakes and rivers where these birds nest can endanger their existence.

Indiscriminate hunting

In parts of Central America and the Amazon region, indiscriminate hunting of these exotic tropical birds takes place.

Hunters often mimic the song of toucans to attract them. Many toucans are captured for the pet trade. The United States, Japan, Europe or the Eastern countries are the main destinations for this type of illegal trade.

Also, they are usually dissected for use as trophies to hang on a wall. In many cases, hunters pay an exorbitant amount of money to break the law and cover up poaching.

References

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