The Lesser Crescent-chested Puffbird (Malacoptila minor) is one of the least known species of Bucconidae and the only form classified as endangered. Here we present the first description of the nest and eggs of this species from the Brazilian state of Maranhão. The nest consists of a ∼60 cm tunnel excavated in flat or slightly sloping ground leading to a broader nesting chamber. The floor of the chamber is covered with a thin layer of dead leaves and twigs on which 2–3 eggs are laid. The eggs are pure white, measure 20.30 (SD 0.22) mm by 24.23 (0.21) mm, and weigh 4.25 (0.96) g (n = 4). The nest entrance is surrounded by a ring of small straws and coarse petioles. Nests with a similar structure have been described in other Malacoptila species as well as Monasa and Nonnula.

You do not currently have access to this content.