The feet are zygodactylous, with two toes on each foot pointing forward, the other two backward. Most barbets are brightly colored, some South American and Asian species being among the most beautiful of birds. Barbets generally inhabit tropical forests, though some African species are adapted to more arid habitats. Most are native to Africa, with 42 species, followed by Asia with 26 species, and 14 in tropical America.
Most barbets feed primarily on fruits, berries, and buds, though most species also eat some insects.
Larger species occasionally prey on young birds, mice, and lizards. B elow is a list of every species of barbet. . . New World Barbets Species in highlighted in aqua include North America or the Caribbean in their range. Check back from time to time to see if I have more barbet information or pictures online. GEO L INKS .