This family includes 18 species of birds. Most are found in tropical and subtropical forests in Central and South America.

They are colorful, medium-sized birds. Many species are brightly marked with reds, yellows, greens, and blacks.

They have stout bodies, large heads, and heavy, bristle-tipped bills that help them eat fruit, insects, and other small animals.

They spend much of their time in the tree canopy, often nesting in tree holes that they excavate themselves.