Motmot

Motmot

There are 8 species of motmot birds. These beautiful birds have brightly coloured plumage and two extended tail feathers which have a tear drop shape. The motmot takes great care of these tail feathers, gently lifting them over branches. While nesting in hollows the female often damages these feathers. The male, however, takes much greater care, emerging only backwards from the hole so not to damage his feathers. Another special feature of the motmot are the serrated edges of their bills. These edges help the motmot crush insects for digestion. The largest species of motmot reaches 18 inches in length. They are found in South and Central America. [BM] {FW}