There are 35 species in this family. They are found from Mexico to South America.

Puffbirds are tropical birds, but they are not brightly colored. They are usually brown or gray. They get their name because their loosely packed feathers make them look puffy.

Puffbirds have large heads and flattened bills with a hooked tip. They eat insects and small invertebrates. They range in size from 5 to 11.5 inches in length.

Puffbirds lay their eggs in a hole in the ground.