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Necklaced Barbet

Psilopogon auricularis
The Necklaced Barbet is a vibrant and charismatic specialty of the Indochinese highlands. Recently recognized as a distinct species after being separated from the Golden-throated Barbet, it is a high-value target for birdwatchers exploring the misty montane forests of Vietnam and Laos.
Status: Near Endemic
IUCN: Least Concern
Diet: Omnivore
Group: bird
Size: 24 cm
Lifespan: 10 years
Sighting: Fairly Common

To identify a Necklaced Barbet among the dense green foliage, look for these specific "trademark" features:

  • Size & Build: It is a medium-sized, "chunky" bird, measuring approximately 22.5 cm in length and weighing between 59 and 78 grams. It has the robust body and strong bill typical of the Asian barbet family.
  • Key Field Marks: The most defining feature is the distinct black "necklace" that runs across the throat, though it can sometimes be a thin line that is difficult to see in the shadows. It also features a thick black mask and "eyebrow", a red forehead, and a bright yellow throat and crown.
  • Similar Species: It is very similar to the Golden-throated Barbet, but their ranges do not overlap, making location the best way to distinguish them.
  • Taxonomic Status: Formerly grouped with the Golden-throated Barbet, it was recently separated into its own species based on distinct facial plumage and deep divergence in mitochondrial DNA.

 

  • Emerald Body: Its plumage is primarily a lush green, providing excellent camouflage among the dense foliage of the forest canopy.
  • Face and Neck Details: It features a vibrant blue crown patch, an orange-red nape (back of the neck), and a yellow-green breast accented by the namesake black necklace.
  • Soft Parts: It possesses a thick, heavy black bill built for fruit eating and dark brown eyes.
  • Males, Females & Youth: Both sexes look almost identical (monomorphic), though males may occasionally be slightly larger. Young birds have duller plumage with less pronounced red patches and a fainter necklace pattern.

 

Species_profile Necklaced Barbet landed near its nest.

This species is a dedicated resident of Southeast Asia's misty peaks:

  • Geographic Range: It is a near-endemic resident found primarily in the mountains of Central and Southern Vietnam (Annam) and southeastern Laos.
  • Elevation: They are mountain specialists, typically found at altitudes between 900 m and 2,100 m above sea level.
  • Favorite Homes: Their preferred habitats are primary evergreen forests, moist deciduous forests, and occasionally secondary growth. They are a common sight in protected areas like Bidoup Nui Ba National Park.
  • Resident Status: These are non-migratory birds that stay in their forest territories throughout the entire year.

Species_profile Necklaced Barbet landed near its nest.
Necklaced Barbet - Psilopogon auricularis

No data was found

 

The Necklaced Barbet is best known for its social personality and persistent voice:

 

  • The Forest Voice: They are more often heard than seen. Their song is a distinctive, hollow "ko-wooo" or a rhythmic "hiccuping" call that has a frog-like quality.
  • Social Structure: They are generally solitary or seen in pairs and are not known to be highly gregarious outside of breeding or foraging.
  • Frugivorous Diet: They are primarily fruit-eaters, consuming figs, berries, and papayas. They also eat small invertebrates like beetles and caterpillars for protein, especially during the breeding season.
  • Tree Architects: Monogamous pairs work together to excavate nesting cavities in tree trunks.
  • Breeding Secrets: Females typically lay 2 to 4 eggs. Both parents share the responsibility of incubating and feeding the chicks until they fledge at approximately 4 weeks of age.
  • Conservation Status: Currently listed as Least Concern (IUCN), they remain a vital part of the ecosystem as seed dispersers, though they rely on the continued preservation of ancient montane forests.

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