Variable Chachalaca
NameVariable Chachalaca
Common NameVariable Chachalaca
Scientific NameOrtalis vetula
FamilyCracidae
Wingspan (cm)65
Length (cm)53
Weight (g)600
Plumage DetailsThe head and neck are rufous (reddish-brown), contrasting with a greyish-brown back, breast, and belly. The tail is dark greenish-brown, often with a rufous tip, and the undertail coverts are rufous. It has a bare, reddish patch of skin on the throat.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its very loud, raucous, and often synchronized calls, typically described as a rapid 'cha-cha-lac' or 'cha-cha-la-ca' repeated by multiple birds.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in Central America, ranging from southern Texas (USA) through eastern Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
Identifying FeaturesRufous (reddish-brown) head and neck, Greyish-brown body plumage, Long tail, often with a rufous tip, Bare reddish throat patch, Loud, distinctive 'cha-cha-lac' call
Description
The Variable Chachalaca is a medium-sized, pheasant-like bird characterized by its long neck and tail. It is known for its loud, raucous calls, often given in groups, especially at dawn and dusk. This species typically inhabits dense thickets and forest edges.
