Psilopogon viridis
Least Concern
The White-cheeked Barbet, an eye-catching resident of the Indian subcontinent, is often heard before it's seen, thanks to its distinct, metronomic call that echoes through the forests and urban gardens. Adorned with a vivid green plumage and contrasting white cheeks, this barbet is a master of tree hollowing, skillfully carving out nesting cavities. It's a familiar and cherished sight, especially in southern India, blending effortlessly into the lush greenery while contributing to the symphony of the wild.
Males and females have similar plumage
Green
Brown, White
Green
Stout
Pale Pink
Grey
White cheeks and throat, white stripe above eyes
Short and stubby with green feathers
22cm to 25cm
Length
48g to 65g
Weight
Click on an image below to see the full-size version
Loud, repetitive 'kutroo kutroo'
Distinctive and repetitive, can be heard from a distance
Sharp and rapid 'tuk tuk tuk'
Active throughout the day, foraging and calling
Solitary or in pairs, not very social
Territorial during breeding season
Non-migratory
Generally does not interact much with other bird species
Fruits, Insects
Feeds on fruit and catches insects in flight
Morning and late afternoon
Picking from foliage or catching in flight
Seasonal variation based on fruit availability
None known
Tree cavities
Excavates nesting holes in dead wood or rotting trees
February to May
Mainly one, but sometimes two
White and glossy
2.9 x 2cm, weighing around 6.5g
Typically 2-4 eggs per clutch
About 14 days
Around 40 days
Both parents participate in feeding and caring for the young
India, specifically in the Western Ghats and adjoining areas
Dense forests and plantations
Lowlands up to 2000 meters
Non-migratory
Forest
Tropical
Please note, this range and distribution map is a high-level overview, and doesn't break down into specific regions and areas of the countries.
Resident or Present
Unknown year(s)
Unknown year(s)
Unknown year(s)
Monogamous, may use the same nest site for several years
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)
Habitat loss and fragmentation
None specific, but occurs in many protected areas
Insufficient data to determine trends
Other names:
Small Green Barbet, Green Barbet
Family:
MegalaimidaePopulation size:
Unknown
Population trend:
Conservation status:
Least Concern
IUCN Red List
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