Semnornis ramphastinus inhabits humid montane forests in the western Andes of Colombia and northwestern Ecuador, typically ranging between 4,600 and 7,900 feet in elevation. It is primarily found in primary or mature secondary forests, especially in areas with abundant epiphytes, mosses, and fruiting trees. While not observed outside its natural habitat, it may enter adjacent clearings or forest edges when foraging. This species is generally sedentary and restricted to its native elevation band, although small seasonal altitudinal movements have been reported depending on fruit availability.

This species is medium-sized, about 7.5 inches in length, with a distinctive appearance characterized by a thick ivory-colored bill, dark red eyes, black crown, and blue-gray cheeks and upper breast. The chest is red, transitioning to yellow underparts, with olive and brown on the wings and back. It feeds mainly on fruit, especially figs and melastomes, and supplements its diet with insects and small vertebrates. Semnornis ramphastinus forages both in the canopy and subcanopy, usually alone or in pairs, though small family groups have been observed. It nests in tree cavities or earthen banks, excavating burrows and lining them with dry material. Vocalizations consist of hoarse croaks and short grunts, and it communicates frequently while foraging. It is considered Near Threatened due to habitat loss from logging, agriculture, and infrastructure development. Estimates place the total number of mature individuals between 15,000 and 30,000.