Toucans

Toucans are exotic, charismatic birds known for their massive colorful bills and vibrant plumage. Popular pet species include the Keel-billed and Channel-billed toucans. These intelligent but high-maintenance birds require specialized care, particularly for their unique dietary needs and sensitive digestive systems.

ESSENTIAL FACTS

Feature Details
Scientific Name Ramphastos (Large), Pteroglossus (Aracari)
Size/Weight 12-29 inches | 300-700g (species dependent)
Lifespan 15-20 years (up to 25 in captivity)
Special Feature Hollow keratin bill (lighter than appears)

IDENTIFICATION

Feature Details
Keel-billed Rainbow-colored bill, black body, yellow throat
Channel-billed Black bill with grooves, red undertail
Gender Differences Males slightly larger (DNA sexing recommended)
Juveniles Duller colors, shorter bills

DIET

Component Details
Base Diet Low-iron pellets (mazuri/zupreem)
Fruits Papaya, banana, melon (60% of diet)
Protein Crickets, mealworms (10-15%)
Critical Avoidance High-iron foods (causes hemochromatosis)

HOUSING

Feature Details
Cage Size Minimum 5’W × 6’L × 6’H (for pairs)
Perches Multiple diameters (1-3″) for foot health
Temperature 75-85°F with 60-70% humidity
Special Needs UVB lighting essential for calcium metabolism

BEHAVIOR

Trait Details
Vocalization Frog-like croaks (not loud but frequent)
Social Generally monogamous, can be kept in pairs
Playfulness Enjoy tossing food/objects with bill
Training Can learn simple commands (not talkative)

Toucan Pro Tips

Bill Care: Provide rough perches to naturally wear down beak.

Iron Storage Disease: Annual blood tests are critical (even with proper diet).

Enrichment: Use puzzle feeders to simulate wild fruit-foraging behavior.

Toucan Care Guide and products

Toucan Care Schedule

DAILY CARE

Task Details Best Time
Fresh Food
  • Chop 1 cup mixed fruits (papaya, banana, berries)
  • Offer 10-15 gut-loaded insects
  • Remove uneaten food after 4 hours
 7-8 AM
Water Change
  • Scrub and refill all water bowls
  • Check automatic misters (if installed)
 AM & PM
Bill Check
  • Look for cracks or abnormal wear
  • Wipe with damp cloth if soiled
 Evening
Flight Time
  • Minimum 2 hours supervised out-of-cage
  • Provide climbing branches
 Late afternoon

WEEKLY CARE

Task Details Recommended Day
Deep Clean
  • Remove all perches and scrub with F10 cleaner
  • Wash cage bars and trays
  • Replace substrate/liner
 Sunday
UV Light Check
  • Test UVB output with meter
  • Replace bulbs every 6-12 months
 Wednesday
Weight Log
  • Weigh before morning feeding
  • Track in health journal
 Friday

MONTHLY CARE

Task Details When
Vet Visit
  • Iron level blood test (critical)
  • Beak/nail trim if needed
 1st week
Perch Replacement
  • Rotate natural branches
  • Sand rough edges
 Mid-month
Diet Review
  • Adjust fruit-to-protein ratios
  • Introduce 1 new low-iron fruit
 Last weekend

Seasonal Toucan Care

Spring: Increase protein before breeding season. Watch for nesting behaviors.

Summer: Extra misting sessions. Monitor fruit spoilage in heat.

Fall: Add vitamin supplements during molt. Reduce daylight hours.

Winter: Use ceramic heat emitter (no light). Offer warmed fruits.

Essential Toucan Products

Diet: Low-iron pellets (Mazuri/Zupreem), digital gram scale, fruit kabobs

Housing: UVB lighting system, humidity gauge, large flight cage

Health: Iron-testing kit, avian vet contact list, first-aid supplies