Crested Caracara
Image: brianae (cc-by-nc)
NameCrested Caracara
Common NameCrested Caracara
Scientific NameCaracara plancus
FamilyFalconidae
Wingspan (cm)126
Length (cm)57.5
Weight (g)1300
Plumage DetailsAdults have a black cap and shaggy crest, white neck and throat, and a black body with fine white barring on the wings and a white tail with a broad black terminal band. The bare facial skin is reddish-orange, becoming brighter when excited.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a distinctive rattling or cackling call, often given with the head thrown back. They also produce harsh squawks and clacks, especially during territorial displays or when disturbed.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsopen country, grassland, savanna, pastures, shrubland, lightly wooded areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound from the southern United States (Florida, Texas, Arizona) through Mexico and Central America, and widely across South America, excluding the high Andes and dense Amazon rainforest.
Identifying Featuresblack cap and crest, white neck and throat, bare reddish-orange face, white tail with black terminal band, long legs, terrestrial foraging behavior, broad wings with white patches visible in flight
Description
The Crested Caracara is a large, long-legged falcon with a distinctive crest and a bold, terrestrial foraging style. It often walks on the ground, searching for food, and is known for its striking facial coloration. Unlike most falcons, it frequently scavenges and hunts on foot.
