Ripley the Toucan: Bird that behaves just like a lap dog

The tropical bird has been receiving hundreds of thousands of views online for her odd antics

Who needs a lapdog when you can have a toucan.

That's what some animal-lovers must be thinking after video emerged online of one such tropical bird being all too willing to be petted, stroked and cuddled like any pooch.

Ripley the Toucan can be seen sitting between her owner's legs as he works at his desk, enjoying a good tickle behind the ears and stroke of the head.

(Facebook / Ripley The Toucan)

Other videos on social media pages dedicated to the bird show her playing catch, taking a bath and even preening her owner as he drives.

Toucans and their colourful bills are more commonly found in the tropical climates of Central and South America. That is when they're not playing major roles in a Disney franchise.