First Successful Breeding of Toco Toucans

Two chicks hatched in early June in the indoor Jaguar Trek exhibit. Both parents have cared for them from day one. The chicks recently left the nest and are now visible in the exhibit. Toco toucans are iconic South American birds, but breeding them in captivity is very challenging. Pair bonding takes time, and nesting requires precise conditions — correct temperature, humidity, and minimal stress. Even small disturbances can cause nest abandonment or chick loss. “This success is exceptional,” said zoologist Václav Štraub. “The female laid four eggs, and two chicks hatched after 18 days. We let the parents raise them entirely on their own, and they’ve done an excellent job.” One key to success may be the large exhibit space, which allows the parents to avoid stressing each other — similar to their natural behavior in the wild. The toco toucan is the largest of all toucan species. Its huge but lightweight beak, up to 20 cm long, helps with feeding, thermoregulation, and communication. In the wild, these birds live in South America’s tropical forests, mainly in Brazil, northern Argentina, and Paraguay.