New Pair of Toucan Chicks

A pair of toco toucan chicks were born less than 3 months ago at the Riverbanks Zoo in South Carolina. Labor day weekend was the first time they have been on display for visitors. They look more like clay creations or toys than real birds. They seem to be composed about the situation but perhaps a little unsure of each other. Their feathers are already well developed and the chicks start learning to fly and other skills after only six weeks. The bills on these toco toucans (the largest toucan species, from central South America) can grow to be 7.5 inches or more. In a month or so the toucans may be transferred to other zoos in the US as part of a breeding program. What handsome young birds! We wish them good luck in their future homes.

A toco chick at one month old. Not quite handsome yet.

Adult Toco Toucan