Chestnut-eared Aracari

The Chestnut-eared Aracari occurs in the lowland forests of eastern Ecuador, typically below 800 meters, where it inhabits humid terra firme and floodplain forests, forest edges, and tall secondary growth. It is generally uncommon but locally present, often seen in small, noisy groups foraging in the canopy for fruit, insects, and small vertebrates. The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a broad Amazonian range and a stable population, though deforestation may pose localized threats. Natural history observations highlight its striking plumage, social behavior, and cavity-nesting habits, with breeding timed to coincide with the rainy season.