Barbets are small to medium-sized birds known for their vibrant plumage and stout bills. They inhabit tropical and subtropical forests, often seen in tree canopies. These birds are fruit eaters, playing a crucial role in seed dispersal. Their calls are loud and repetitive, often heard before seen.

Barbets are native to tropical regions of the world, with their distribution primarily in sub-Saharan Africa, South and Southeast Asia, and Central and South America. The Old World barbets (family: Lybiidae) are commonly found in Africa, while the Asian barbets (family: Megalaimidae) are widespread across India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and the greater Indo-Malayan region. The New World barbets (family: Capitonidae) are distributed in Central and South America.

Barbets typically inhabit tropical and subtropical forests, including rainforests, woodlands, and savannas. They are often found in areas with dense tree cover where they can find ample food sources and nesting sites. The climate in these regions is usually warm and humid, which supports the lush vegetation that barbets rely on.

Barbets are primarily frugivorous, feeding on a variety of fruits, seeds, and occasionally insects. Their strong bills are adapted for gouging out tree bark to access insects and for consuming fruits. They play a crucial role in seed dispersal and are known for their cavity-nesting behavior, often using holes in dead trees or branches for breeding. This niche makes them important for forest health and regeneration.