White-mantled Barbet map, NatureServe

Barbets are related to toucans and woodpeckers. They all have "zygodactyl" feet, with two toes facing forward and two backward—an arrangement that helps tree-dwelling birds grasp branches. Barbets play a key role in tropical forests by consuming and dispersing seeds of fruit trees.

Found only in Colombia, the White-mantled Barbet's population is declining as a result of deforestation. It finds refuge in the Cerulean Warbler Conservation Corridor established by Fundación ProAves and ABC, a site that also provides winter habitat for Rose-breasted Grosbeak and other migrants.

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White-mantled Barbet by Dusan Brinkhuizen

White-mantled Barbets nest in tree cavities dug by breeding pairs. Their distinctive voice is a deep croak, repeated frequently for long periods.

Erin Lebbin, ABC's Assistant Director of Development, had the pleasure of seeing a pair of these charismatic birds at the El Paujil Reserve, also established by ProAves with support from ABC. She recalls: "We hiked uphill along a wet and muddy trail for one or two hours before arriving at the barbet's habitat. Once we found the birds, I was impressed with their loud and chattery song."

The White-mantled Barbet benefits from ABC's efforts to "bring back the birds." Conserving geographically linked habitats in places both north and south benefits migrants such as Cerulean Warbler and year-round residents like this barbet and the Gorgeted Wood-Quail.

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