As most of the Motmot species that can be found in Costa Rica, this Motmot is seen perched in branches, slowly moving its head from one side to the other, and sometimes moving its tail in pendulum fashion. It is very similar to the Rufous Motmot, however the latter is bigger and has a rufous belly. They construct their nests on ground walls, which means they are sometimes flushed by unsuspecting people passerby. Along with their black marking on the head, they have a black spot on the throat. The body looks greenish, however the back of the tail is blue.

This Broad-billed Motmot stood still for many minutes on this branch