Lesson’s Motmot, Momotus lessonii

Lesson’s Motmot, Momotus lessonii. Photograph taken in the lowlands adjacent to the Arenal Volcano (Volcán Arenal) in northwestern Costa Rica, February 2016. Photograph and identification courtesy of Dr. Tom Bartol, Carlsbad, California.

Lesson’s Motmot, Momotus lessonii. Photograph taken in the lowlands adjacent to the Arenal Volcano (Volcán Arenal) in northwestern Costa Rica, February 2023. Photograph and identification courtesy of Dr. Tom Bartol, Carlsbad, California.

Background and Identification

Habitat and Geographical Range

Common Misidentifications

Conservation Status

Lesson’s Motmot, Momotus lessonii, is a member of the Momotidae Family of Motmots. They are small in stature. In Mexico that are found within the Atlantic Slope in the States of from Veracruz to the Yucatán and within the Pacific Slope in the States Oaxaca and Chiapas at elevations up to 2150 m (7,500 feet). From a conservation perspective Lesson’s Motmot is currently considered to be of Least Concern; however, their populations are decreasing. They are found in subtropical dry forests and in subtropical and tropical moist lowlands. They primarily consume small invertebrates and seasonal fruits.