The Birds Of Brazil’s Atlantic Forest

Brazilian biodiversity is at its peak in the Atlantic forest, which features 55 species of birds, as well as hundreds of primates, reptiles and examples of marine life. However, this region, which is located in the northeastern section of the country, is currently ravaged by the over-harvesting of natural resources, such as trees and minerals. Hunting is also a threat to these beautiful and exotic birds. Examples of species of birds which live in this tropical and sub-tropical moist forest region include toucans, parrots and eagles.

New Species Of Atlantic Forest Birds Still Being Discovered

Despite heavy de-forestation and loss of habitat in this 4,000 kilometer region, previously unknown species of birds are still being found in the Atlantic Forest, including the Grey-winged Cotinga Tijuca Condita, which was first classified by biologists in the 1980s. Many animal rights and environmental organizations that support Brazilian biodiversity in the Atlantic Forest, such as Greenpeace and the World Wildlife Fund, are devoted to preserving the habitats (and survival) of Brazil’s Atlantic Forest birds.

Toucans Of The Atlantic Forest

These colorful birds, which have long, prominent beaks, are usually found in tropical and sub-tropical environs. Toucan nests are found in holes of trees. Since the Toucan’s large beak isn’t a good tool for boring holes in tree trunks, this type of bird seeks out holes created by other birds, including woodpeckers, and then crafts nests within the hollows. Toucans prefer to eat fruit; however, they may also snack on insects or tiny reptiles in order to survive. Toucans play a vital role in the Atlantic Forest by spreading fruit seeds in trees.

Parrots Of Northeast Brazil

Parrots of the Atlantic Forest have curved bills, and they stand upright on sturdy legs and clawed feet. These parrots may feature plumage in an arresting rainbow-riot of colors. However, certain parrots found in Northeast Brazil will not be multicolored. For example, certain parrots known as cockatoos may be quite dark in appearance, and they may display crests of feathers on the crowns of their heads. Parrots munch on seeds, nuts, fruit, and other plant-based foods. Occasionally, parrots will feast on the carcasses of animals. Parrots, like Toucans, prefer to live in nests located in the holes of trees.

Eagles Of The Brazilian Atlantic Forest

Eagles found in Northeast Brazil’s Atlantic Forest area are big and strong birds of prey, which feature distinctively heavy heads and bills. These birds fly with great skill, and they are predators that inspire fear in many small animals. Due to their excellent vision and aerodynamic feathers, they have the ability to target prey with relative ease and speed. Eagles in the Atlantic Forest live in treetops or on high cliffs; these powerful birds build nests that give them eagles-eye views of the entire forest region.

Now that you know more about Brazilian biodiversity and the Atlantic Forest’s beautiful birds, you’ll understand why preserving the Atlantic Forest is so important.  When Brazilian biodiversity in this area is threatened, the entire eco-system is at risk, which may affect the fate of many species of animal, avian, reptile and plant life. Certain areas of the Atlantic Forest are now protected from hunting and harvesting, thereby offering Brazilian birds a better chance of surviving to be admired by newer generations.