Ramphastos is a genus of toucans, tropical and subtropical near passerine birds from Mexico, and Central and South America (with one species occurring in the Caribbean), which are brightly marked and have enormous, often colourful, bills. Taxonomy The genus Ramphastos was introduced in 1758 by the Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus in the tenth edition of his Systema Naturae. The name is from Ancient Greek ῥαμφηστης/rhamphēstēs meaning "snouted" (from ῥαμφη/rhampē meaning "bill"). The type species was later designated by Nicholas Aylward Vigors as the white-throated toucan (Ramphastos tucanus). Species The genus contains eight species: Former species Some authorities, either presently or formerly, recognize additional species or subspecies as species belonging to the genus Ramphastos including: Green aracari (as Ramphastos viridis) Ivory-billed aracari (as Ramphastos Azara) Black-necked aracari (as Ramphastos Aracari) Black-necked aracari (atricollis) (as Ramphastos atricollis) Collared aracari (as Ramphastos torquatus) Saffron toucanet (as Ramphastos Bailloni) Description This genus comprises the largest toucans, ranging from in length. All have black wings, tails and thighs, but the colour of the remaining plumage depends on the exact species involved. Diversity of bills Distribution and habitat They are essentially resident birds, but may take part in minor, local movements (e.g., to lower altitudes in the winter). Behaviour and ecology Breeding They are arboreal and nest in tree holes laying 2–4 white eggs. Food and feeding All the species are basically fruit-eating, but will take insects and other small prey. Threats The ischnoceran louse Austrophilopterus cancellosus is suspected to parasitize all species of Ramphastos toucans. Its presence has been confirmed on all species except the citron-throated toucan. References External links Toucans Bird genera