crested caracara
1. Bird Name
The bird in focus is the Crested Caracara, also known by its scientific name, Caracara cheriway.
2. Appearance
Crested Caracaras are distinguished by their striking appearance. They possess a thick, heavy build with a long neck and a strong, curved beak. They bear a white or creamy-colored neck and breast, offset by a black crown, back and tail. Their face is further accentuated by a bright yellow-orange skin patch, more vivacious during the mating season. They have light eyes, sharp talons, and their most distinctive feature: a black crest that stands erect when the bird is excited or agitated. Gender differences are minimal; females being slightly larger and juveniles bearing brown hues before molting into adult plumage.
3. Size
On average, Crested Caracaras measure about 49-58 cm (19-23 in) in length with an impressive wingspan of 120 cm (47 in). A fully grown Crested Caracara can weigh between 0.9 – 1.6 kg (2 – 3.5 lbs).
4. Habitat & Distribution
The Crested Caracara is most commonly found around South America, Central America, Mexico, and the southern regions of the United States (Florida, Texas, and Arizona). It favors open, lowland habitats like deserts, savannahs, pastures, scrublands, and even the edges of forests.
5. Interesting Facts
Crested Caracaras are primarily scavengers, but unlike typical scavengers, they also hunt, both on foot and in the air. Another interesting fact is their unusual behavior of gathering in groups to perform strange, foot-stamping dances during mating season. In Mexican culture, the Crested Caracara is featured on the national flag and coat of arms, known as the “Mexican Eagle.”
6. Diet
These birds have diverse dietary habits, consuming carrion, small mammals, birds and even large insects. They’re also known to prey on turtle eggs and hatchlings.
7. Behavior & Sounds
Crested Caracaras are monogamous, often forming lifelong pairs. They usually nest in trees, utilizing large sticks to assemble nest structures. They possess a unique call, described as a raspy, croaking sound, or a high, sharp whistle.
8. Conservation Status
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, the Crested Caracara is classified as ‘Least Concern,’ meaning they are not currently threatened or endangered.
9. Lifespan
Crested Caracaras tend to have an average lifespan of about 8 to 10 years in the wild, but in captivity, with optimal conditions, they can live up to 25 years.
10. Additional Notes
Locally, the Crested Caracara is known as “Caracara Quebrantahuesos” in Spanish and “Warawara” in Papiamento. Their relationship with humans is mixed; whilst they serve a crucial role in eliminating dead animals and controlling rodent and insect populations, they’re often perceived negatively by farmers who view them as a threat to livestock, despite their preference for carrion. Their role as apex scavengers in ecosystems is vitally important, aiding in decomposition and nutrient cycling.
