Wattled Jacana
NameWattled Jacana
Common NameWattled Jacana
Scientific NameJacana jacana
FamilyJacanidae
Wingspan (cm)40
Length (cm)23
Weight (g)125
Plumage DetailsAdults have a black head, neck, and breast, contrasting with a rich chestnut back and wings. The rump and tail are also chestnut. The underparts are black. In flight, bright yellow primary and secondary flight feathers are visible. A prominent red frontal shield and wattle extend from the base of the yellow bill over the forehead.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of harsh, chattering, and squeaky calls, often described as a 'kreek-kreek-kreek' or 'churr-churr'. They are particularly vocal when disturbed or during territorial disputes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound throughout much of South America, from Panama south to northern Argentina and Uruguay, and also on Trinidad and Tobago.
Identifying FeaturesExtremely long toes and claws for walking on floating vegetation, Bright red frontal shield and wattle, Black head and neck with chestnut body, Yellow bill with a red base, Yellow flight feathers visible in flight
Description
The Wattled Jacana is a striking wetland bird known for its extremely long toes, which allow it to walk across floating vegetation like lily pads. It exhibits a distinctive black head and neck, a chestnut body, and a prominent red frontal shield and wattle.
