Crested Caracara
NameCrested Caracara
Common NameCrested Caracara
Scientific NameCaracara plancus
FamilyFalconidae
Wingspan (cm)126
Length (cm)54.5
Weight (g)1300
Plumage DetailsAdults have a black body, a white neck and upper chest with fine black barring, and a prominent black crest or cap. The facial skin and cere are bright orange-red, and the legs and feet are pale yellow-orange. The tail is white with a broad black terminal band.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a distinctive rattling or cackling call, often given with the head thrown back. They also produce harsh squawks and clacks.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, savanna, pasture, agricultural fields, scrubland, open country
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound from the southern United States (Florida, Texas, Arizona) through Mexico and Central America, extending across most of South America.
Identifying Featuresblack cap, white neck, orange-red facial skin, black body, white tail with black terminal band, long yellow-orange legs, terrestrial foraging
Description
This striking raptor is characterized by its bold black and white plumage, black crest, and vibrant orange-red facial skin. Unlike many falcons, it spends a significant amount of time walking on the ground, foraging for food with an opportunistic and scavenger-like approach.
