Momotus mexicanus
By Nat. Eduardo Villegas
The Russet-crowned Motmot (Momotus mexicanus) is a species of coraciiform bird belonging to the Momotidae family. The vast majority of its distribution is in Mexico, covering practically the entire Pacific slope, though there is a known population in Guatamela too. Guatemala shows greater differentiation than the Mexican subspecies.
Momotus mexicanus is found in arid and semi-arid wooded or semi-open areas, and feeds on invertebrates, small vertebrates, and fruits. It nests in burrows dug in hillsides, among tree roots and fallen trees. While this species often builds its nests by themselves, it occasionally does so in the company of others.
An adult can measure between 30.5 and 35.5 cm. Thanks to its bright colors, the appearance of these birds is unmistakable!
Russet-crowned Motmots are solitary birds, although they appear to maintain mating bonds for many years. Males and females sing together in a mating ritual that also helps strengthen the bond during the non-breeding season and to maintain the security of their territory. They often have a subtle or soft call.
This brightly-colored species shakes its tails from side to side in a frantic display of movement. Research has shown that they do this when predators are approaching. Thus, they give the predator a signal that they have seen them, to ward them off. This behavior also makes other Russet-crowned motmots aware of the approaching predator. Motmots were well-known in Mayan culture.
Like other motmots, the Russet-crowned Motmot typically hunts by perching and waiting to catch small prey such as lizards, though it also consumes fruit.
