Groove-billed Ani
NameGroove-billed Ani
Common NameGroove-billed Ani
Scientific NameCrotophaga sulcirostris
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)44.5
Length (cm)32
Weight (g)75
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is entirely black, often exhibiting a subtle iridescent sheen, particularly on the head and neck where the feathers have a scaly, textured appearance. The bill is also black.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a distinctive, rising 'whee-o' or 'tee-ho' whistle, often repeated, along with various chattering, guttural, or clicking notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound from southern Texas through Mexico and Central America, extending into parts of South America, including Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Peru.
Identifying FeaturesLarge, arched black bill with prominent grooves, Entirely black plumage, Scaly texture on head and neck feathers, Long tail, Social behavior, often seen in flocks
Description
The Groove-billed Ani is a medium-sized, entirely black cuckoo characterized by its distinctive deeply grooved bill. These highly social birds are often observed in small flocks, foraging for insects and other food items in dense vegetation.
