Ortalis araucuan
The East Brazilian Chachalaca (*Ortalis araucuan*) is a captivating member of the Cracid family, embodying the vibrant life of the Atlantic Forest. Measuring approximately 46-52 cm (18-20.5 inches) in length and weighing around 450-700 grams (16-25 oz), this medium-sized gamebird possesses a distinctive appearance. Its plumage features an olive-brown back, wings, and long tail, which contrasts with a paler grey head and neck, and whitish underparts. A striking field mark is the bare reddish-p...
This chachalaca primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical moist lowland forests, secondary growth, and forest edges, often found in plantations and dense riparian vegetation. It typically occurs from sea level up to around 900 meters (3,000 feet) in elevation.
The diet of the East Brazilian Chachalaca is predominantly vegetarian, consisting mainly of fruits, berries, seeds, and buds, supplemented by leaves and occasionally small insects. They forage primarily by gleaning items directly from branches and foliage.
The East Brazilian Chachalaca is a highly social and diurnal bird, most active during the early morning and late afternoon, often engaging in conspicuous group calls at dawn and dusk. Foraging primarily involves moving deliberately through the mid-canopy and understory, gleaning fruits, seeds, an...
The East Brazilian Chachalaca is endemic to a restricted portion of eastern Brazil, primarily found within the Atlantic Forest biome. Its main distribution spans the coastal lowlands and foothills of the states of Bahia, Espírito Santo, and Rio de Janeiro, extending inland into eastern Minas Gera...
Least Concern
- The species' local name, "aracuã," is an onomatopoeia derived directly from its distinctive, loud call. - Unlike many birds, chachalaca chicks are precocial, meaning they are born relatively mature and can fly short distances within days of hatching. - Their synchronized "dawn choruses" are amo...