Mysteries Unveiled: Exploring the Enchanting World of Momotus momota

The Blue-crowned Motmot (*Momotus momota*), also known as the Blue-capped Motmot and the Amazonian Motmot, is a bird native to the woodlands and forests of Mexico, particularly the eastern parts. They belong to the family Momotidae. Their name is derived from their distinctive blue central crowns, and the term “motmot” comes from the American-Spanish term for the sound they make. Blue-crowned Motmots are often found sitting still in their forested habitats, their tail feathers swinging like a pendulum. They are also known for their ability to survive in drier habitats and for their extended tail feathers. These omnivores primarily live solitary lives, except during the breeding season. Their nests are constructed in riverbank tunnels. The lifespan of a Blue-crowned Motmot can reach around 20 years, and they possess separate upper mandibles. The total mature individuals of Blue-crowned Motmots are estimated to be around 20,000 to 49,999 globally, but their population is showing a declining trend. According to the IUCN, they are listed as a species of Least Concern in terms of conservation status.

Blue-crowned Motmots measure between 15 to 17 inches (38-43 cm) in length and weigh around 2.7 to 6 ounces (77-175 g). They have a wingspan of about 8 inches (20 cm). While females are slightly smaller than males, their overall description remains similar. The crown of the Blue-crowned Motmot is blue with a central black patch. These birds feature a prominent black mask around their faces and red eyes. The feathers on their back and upper tail exhibit shades of various greens. The blue tail of the Blue-crowned Motmot is often described as “racket-like,” a feature it develops by pruning its own feathers. Their plumage is predominantly bluish and bright green. One of the most noticeable features is the two central tail feathers that extend further down than the rest of the tail. The bill is black, broad, and has separated upper mandibles. Their legs and feet are short and gray. These motmots have distinct feet, with a single rear toe and the inner and middle toes combined. The chicks of Blue-crowned Motmots are born naked without any plumage.

The regal appearance of Blue-crowned Motmots is captivating. Perhaps their most appealing feature is the racket-like tail feathers that they prune themselves. Their overall coloration is a beautiful blue-green, and they possess broad beaks. Every part of their body boasts unique characteristics. The face and head feature a black mask and a blue-black crown, respectively. Their feet are quite distinctive, with the middle and inner toes joined, and only a single rear toe. The two extended feathers of their tails hang lower and further than the rest of the tail, making them truly unique and beautiful birds.

Blue-crowned Motmots communicate using an “ooo-doot” call that resembles the sound of an owl. Additionally, they swing their extended tail feathers from side to side when they detect the presence of a predator, signaling that they are aware of the threat.

The Blue-crowned Motmot’s size is around 15-17 inches (38–43 cm) long, making it four times larger than the Verdin and eight times larger than the Bee Hummingbird.

The male and female of the Blue-crowned Motmot species are not distinguished by specific names.

Blue-crowned Motmots mainly consume insects, particularly beetles, and more specifically, dung beetles. They also include other insects like phasmids and cicadas in their diet. They are also known to supplement their diet with fruits, insect larvae, spiders, and small lizards.

Blue-crowned Motmots would not make good pets. They are wild solitary birds that thrive in their natural habitats, and their conservation, particularly of rainforests, is crucial.

Blue-crowned Motmots belong to the order Coraciiformes, which encompasses brightly colored birds like kingfishers, motmots, and bee-eaters.

There is a Blue-crowned Motmot residing in the Houston Zoo in Texas. In the Mexican state of Yucatan, the Blue-crowned Motmot has two subspecies that may compete for territory. This bird also held significant importance in the ancient Maya culture.

Within the Motmot family, there are six Blue-crowned species: the Trinidad Motmot, whooping motmot, Andean motmot, Lesson’s motmot, the Blue-capped Motmot, and the Amazonian Motmot.

The Blue-crowned Motmot is recognizable by its blue and black central crown, as well as its pendulum-like tail feathers. Their tail feathers are described as “racket-like,” a unique feature that they prune themselves.

The term “motmot” has ancient American Spanish origins, meaning “compound” and “repetitive.” It has been used to imitate and refer to the notes of the birds that repeat themselves, sounding like “motmot.” Therefore, motmots have been named after their calls.