ARGENTINE TOUCANS (Rhamphastus toco] 



The brilliantly coloured Toucans, of which one of the largest 

 species (two feet in length) is figured, inhabit the dense forests of 

 tropical America. They are gregarious in habit, and feed chiefly, 

 though not entirely, on fruits and seeds. The short strong legs, 

 with two toes directed forwards and two backwards (as in the 

 closely allied woodpeckers), are well adapted to the perching habit. 

 A much more remarkable feature is the huge laterally flattened 

 beak, which enables these birds to reach their food with the 

 minimum of exertion. That of the Argentine Toucan has been 

 compared in shape and colour to the claw of a lobster. Although 

 so large the beak is far from heavy, and does not hamper the flight, 

 which is much more easy and rapid than might be anticipated. 



