Ortalis superciliaris
The Buff-browed Chachalaca (*Ortalis superciliaris*) is a medium-sized, highly arboreal gamebird native to the Amazon basin, typically measuring between 49 and 55 cm in length and weighing 475 to 620 grams. Its most striking field mark, from which it derives its name, is a prominent pale, buffy-white supercilium that sharply contrasts with its otherwise dark plumage. The body is primarily olive-brown on the upperparts, transitioning to a paler, often rufous-tinged belly and undertail coverts....
This species primarily inhabits humid lowland and submontane evergreen forests, including terra firme and várzea forest edges, often found near rivers or clearings, generally below 500 meters in elevation.
Primarily frugivorous, its diet consists mainly of fruits and berries, supplemented by leaves, flowers, buds, and occasionally insects, foraged from the forest canopy and understory.
The Buff-browed Chachalaca is a highly social and predominantly arboreal bird, active during daylight hours, though its characteristic vocalizations often commence at dawn and continue into dusk. Foraging occurs primarily in the canopy and subcanopy, where they expertly glean fruits, leaves, and ...
The Buff-browed Chachalaca is endemic to the lower Amazon basin in northeastern Brazil, primarily distributed east of the Tocantins River. Its core range encompasses the states of Pará, from the right bank of the Tocantins eastward, extending into the northern parts of Maranhão, and potentially r...
Least Concern
- The Buff-browed Chachalaca's scientific name "superciliaris" directly translates to 'eyebrowed,' a clear nod to its most distinctive facial feature. - Unlike many birds that sing solos, these chachalacas often engage in loud, coordinated group choruses, producing a raucous "cha-cha-lac" sound t...