Scientific Name: Capito niger
General Information
The Black-spotted Barbet is a monotypic bird of South America, meaning no subspecies. Previously the Gilded Barbet was classified as its subspecies. It is usually found in pairs or small flocks. It has a range in a contiguous region that is centered on the Guiana Highlands and the northeast Amazon.
Physical Description
The Black-spotted Barbet averages 7.5 inches in length and weighs about 48 – 58g. It has a stout bill and is usually black and yellow in color. The female is more heavily marked in black on the underbelly.
Diet
This bird feeds on nectars and fruits as well as insects and spiders. In captivity: Paradise Earth Premium Softbill Blend, Dried Insects, fruit and nectar.
Habitat
The Black-spotted Barbet spends much time in the mid to canopy-high range of trees. It occurs in subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests as well as subtropical and tropical swamps. It also inhabits heavily degraded former forests, and has been known venture into human habitats. Its range encompasses eastern Columbia, eastern Peru, Brazil, the Guianas, and Venezuela.
Reproduction
The Black-spotted Barbet nest in tree hollows, often century plant stalks or old woodpecker nests, but they will also excavates new holes in soft woods. The female lays 2 – 5 eggs per clutch, and both parents incubate the eggs for about 18 days. Fledging occurs at around day 30. The young are dependant on their parents and possess heal pads that assist them in the bottom of the nest.