There are five species in the Todidae family. These tiny birds, called todies, are found only in the Caribbean, where they live in forests, woodlands, and gardens.

Todies are only a little larger than hummingbirds. They have bright green upperparts, white or gray underparts, colorful red or pink throats, long, flat, pointed bills with tiny bristles at the base, and short tails.

They eat mostly insects and other small invertebrates, such as spiders. Todies usually sit quietly on a branch until they spot prey. Then they dart out to catch it in midair or pick it from leaves and twigs. They may also eat small lizards from time to time.

Todies dig nesting burrows in earthen banks or sloping ground. The female usually lays 2–4 white eggs, and both parents help incubate the eggs and care for the chicks.