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Keel-billed Toucan

Keel-billed toucanThis species is protected from trade under Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). Its main threats are due to loss of its rainforest habitat. Hunting for meat and feathers for ornamental purposes continue to be a problem as well.

These animals used to be highly sought after for the pet trade, but captive breeding for this purpose has greatly decreased the number of wild birds being captured. Also, educating locals on this bird’s nasty disposition has helped to decrease its popularity in the pet trade. In zoos, this species is managed under the Toucan Species Survival Plan (SSP) to increase successful breeding and improve the genetics of the captive population.