Toucan

High school (ages 12+)
Animals & Nature

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/toucan

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the scientific name?Family Ramphastidae
2. What is the lifespan?Estimated 15-20 years in the wild; up to 25 years in captivity
3. What does a toucan's big beak do?The toucan’s huge beak is light and full of tiny holes, so it doesn’t weigh much. It helps the bird cool off, reach fruit on thin branches, and show off to mates.
4. Where do toucans live?Toucans live in warm, leafy forests from southern Mexico all the way down to northern Argentina, where they can find tall trees and plenty of fruit.

Neotropical Region: The biogeographical realm that encompasses Central and South America, including the Caribbean islands and parts of the southern United States.
Keystone Species: A species that has a disproportionately large effect on its natural environment relative to its abundance.
Altricial: Describes young animals that are born in an undeveloped state and require prolonged parental care.