Pet Aracari Care Requirements & Why They’re Better Than Toucans
Thinking about an exotic bird? Here’s why pet aracaris are the smarter pick over toucans — plus the complete lowdown on diet, housing, costs, and health essentials to keep these gorgeous birds thriving.
Aracaris are captivating members of the toucan family (Ramphastidae) that have been gaining attention among exotic bird enthusiasts. With their vibrant plumage, distinctive beaks, and playful personalities, these medium sized birds offer a unique companion experience for dedicated avian keepers.
This guide covers everything you need to know about keeping aracaris as pets, from their care requirements to why many experienced bird owners prefer them over their larger toucan relatives.
What Are Aracaris?
Aracaris (pronounced “ah-rah-SAH-rees”) are small to medium sized members of the toucan family native to Central and South America. The most commonly kept species in captivity include:
- Collared Aracari (Pteroglossus torquatus) – A popular pet species
- Curl Crested Aracari (Pteroglossus beauharnaisii) – Known for their unique feathered crests
- Fiery Billed Aracari (Pteroglossus frantzii) – Stunning orange and red coloration
- Green Aracari (Pteroglossus viridis) – Predominantly green plumage
These birds typically measure 12 to 16 inches in length and weigh between 110 to 250 grams, making them significantly smaller and more manageable than their toucan cousins.
Aracari vs. Toucan Why Aracaris Make Better Pets
Both are spectacular birds — but for most households, the aracari wins on every practical measure.
Aracaris are considerably smaller and need significantly less living space — a practical advantage for most homes and yards.
8 × 4 × 6 ft
Minimum aviary size
12 × 6 × 8 ft+
Minimum aviary size
Aracaris generally have calmer and more predictable temperaments than toucans, making them better suited to life in the average household.
While both species vocalize, aracaris typically produce softer, less frequent calls than toucans. Their croaking and yelping sounds are generally quieter and less piercing than the loud, carrying calls of their larger relatives.
Aracaris have slightly less sensitive digestive systems than toucans and can tolerate minor dietary variations better.
Important: Specialized dietary care remains essential for both species regardless of this difference — don’t let “more flexible” become an excuse for cutting corners on nutrition.
Aracaris are significantly more accessible financially — both at purchase and ongoing — due to smaller food portions and housing requirements.
$1,500 – $4,000+
Purchase price range
$7,000 – $15,000+
Purchase price range
Essential Care Requirements for Pet Aracaris
Get the environment right and your aracari will thrive for decades.
Aracaris are active and acrobatic birds that need genuine flight space — larger is always better. These are the absolute minimums.
8 ft
4 ft
6 ft
Use sturdy materials with bar spacing of 1 to 1.5 inches. Material choice is critical — galvanized wire poses serious zinc toxicity risks.
Provide multiple natural wood perches of varying diameters (1 to 2 inches) to promote foot health. Supplement with rope perches and swings for enrichment and mental stimulation.
Maintain a comfortable ambient range at all times. Aracaris can tolerate brief drops but must be protected from freezing conditions and extreme heat.
65 – 80°F
18 – 27°C
Below 50°F
Freezing conditions
Proper humidity is essential for respiratory health and feather condition. In dry climates, active management is required.
50 – 70%
Relative humidity
In dry climates, use misters or humidifiers to maintain proper moisture levels — don’t rely on the ambient environment alone.
Unique dietary needs that require daily preparation and close attention.
Dice into bite-sized pieces and serve fresh. Offer twice daily and remove uneaten food promptly — warm conditions cause fruit to spoil quickly and spoiled food can make your bird seriously ill.
Essential to prevent iron storage disease — pellet choice is critical and non-negotiable.
Insects are the most natural protein source for aracaris in the wild. Hard-boiled egg should be offered sparingly as an occasional treat, not a regular component.
Follow your avian vet’s specific guidance on supplement type, dosage, and frequency — over-supplementing can be as harmful as under-supplementing.
Always consult your avian vet before introducing any new food or supplement to your aracari’s diet — their nutritional needs are highly specific and mistakes can have serious long-term health consequences.
Hemochromatosis (iron storage disease) is a serious and potentially fatal condition in aracaris. Avoid all high-iron foods — their digestive systems cannot process excess iron safely.
Know the risks, find your vet early, and learn to spot trouble before it becomes serious.
Locate an experienced avian vet specialising in softbills before acquiring your aracari — not after. Annual check-ups and fecal exams are essential components of routine care.
Lethargy or decreased activity
Loss of appetite
Fluffed feathers
Breathing difficulties
Changes in droppings
Beak discoloration
Birds instinctively mask illness until it becomes severe. Any combination of these signs warrants a same-day call to your avian vet — don’t wait to see if it resolves on its own.
Highly social, playful, and surprisingly affectionate — here’s what your aracari needs to thrive.
Remember: Even hand-raised aracaris retain wild instincts — tameability varies by individual bird, and wild behaviours will always be part of who they are.
Many owners report that their aracaris are genuinely affectionate — some even enjoy snuggling under their owner’s shirt. These are not distant birds once trust is established.
Enjoy sitting near or on their owners
Many enjoy cuddling closely with their humans
Play actively with toys and explore their environment
Show affection through gentle beaking and vocalisations
Remain somewhat more independent than parrots
Aracaris are intelligent birds that thrive on daily mental stimulation. A bored aracari is an unhappy aracari — variety and novelty are key.
Swap toys regularly to maintain novelty and prevent boredom
Hide food to encourage natural search and problem-solving behaviours
Positive reinforcement training builds trust and provides mental challenge
Natural branches for climbing and exploring satisfy instinctive behaviours
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Ownership starts with doing things right — legally, ethically, and for the long haul.
Laws governing exotic bird ownership vary widely. Check every level of jurisdiction before purchasing — what’s permitted at the state level may be restricted locally.
State laws
County regulations
City ordinances
Local permit requirements
Some jurisdictions prohibit certain species outright or require specific permits — verify your legal standing before making any purchase decisions.
Only purchase from reputable breeders who are transparent about their practices and birds. A trustworthy breeder welcomes your questions.
Complete health records for the bird
Proper legal documentation confirming lawful ownership
Lineage information and breeding history
Ongoing support and guidance for new owners after purchase
A breeder who is reluctant to provide documentation or answer questions about the bird’s background is a breeder to walk away from.
15 – 20+ years
A commitment that will span major life changes, moves, and milestones
Daily fresh food preparation & feeding
Regular cage cleaning & maintenance
Routine & emergency veterinary care
Vacation planning & bird-sitting arrangements
Costs of Keeping an Aracari
Initial Costs:
- Bird purchase: $1,500 to $4,000+
- Aviary/XL cage: $800 to $3,000+
- Perches and accessories: $200 to $500+
- Initial veterinary exam: $150 to $300+
Monthly Ongoing Costs:
- Food (fresh fruit, pellets, insects): $300 to $500+
- Supplements: $20 to $40
- Cleaning supplies: $20 to $30+
- Veterinary savings fund: $50 to $100+
Annual Costs:
- Routine veterinary care: $200 to $400+
- Unexpected medical expenses: Variable – potentially $500 to $2,000+
Tips for Prospective Aracari Owners
Six steps that every responsible aracari owner takes before committing.
Join online communities and connect with experienced aracari owners before making any decisions. The more you learn from people already living with these birds, the better prepared you’ll be for everything that follows.
Observe aracaris in person before committing to ownership. Seeing their behaviours and needs firsthand is something no amount of online research can fully replicate.
Have the aviary built, equipped, and ready before your bird comes home. Scrambling to set things up after arrival adds unnecessary stress for both you and the bird.
Find and establish a relationship with an experienced avian vet who has specific toucan and aracari expertise before you need one in an emergency — not after.
Unless you have significant experience with exotic birds, start with a single aracari. Master the basics of care, diet, and handling before considering adding another bird to the mix.
Aracaris can live 15–20 years with proper care. Consider now who will care for your bird if your circumstances change — moves, illness, or major life events are all real possibilities over a two-decade commitment.
Plan honestly for both routine and emergency care costs — avian vet visits, specialist food, enclosure maintenance, and unexpected health issues. Underbudgeting is one of the most common reasons exotic bird ownership goes wrong.
Is A Pet Aracari Right for You?
Aracaris can be extraordinary companions for the right person. They offer stunning beauty, engaging personalities, and fascinating behaviors that make every day interesting.
Their smaller size, calmer temperament, and lower costs compared to toucans make them a more accessible option for many exotic bird enthusiasts.
However, they’re typically not recommended for beginners. Pet aracaris require:
- Specialized housing and environmental conditions
- Daily fresh food preparation
- Financial resources
- Access to specialized veterinary care
- Long term commitment and dedication
If you can meet these requirements and are passionate about providing excellent care, an aracari can be a rewarding addition to your life.
These remarkable birds bring color, personality, and joy to those willing to invest the time, effort, and resources they deserve.
For those considering adding an exotic bird to their family, aracaris represent an excellent choice – offering many of the characteristics that make toucans so appealing, but in a more manageable and practical package for dedicated bird lovers.
