Crypturellus duidae
The Grey-legged Tinamou, Crypturellus duidae, is a strikingly reclusive and often overlooked member of the ancient Palaeognathae lineage, sharing ancestry with ostriches and emus, yet possessing the ability to fly. This medium-sized ground-dweller measures approximately 27-30 cm (10.5-12 in) in length and weighs between 280-350 grams (9.9-12.3 oz), characterized by its stout body, small head, and distinctive grey legs which give it its common name. Its plumage is cryptically colored with an o...
This species primarily inhabits dense, humid evergreen montane forests, often referred to as cloud forests, at elevations typically between 1300 and 2400 meters above sea level.
Their diet primarily consists of fruits, berries, seeds, and small invertebrates such as insects and their larvae, which they forage for by gleaning and probing the forest floor.
Grey-legged Tinamous are exceptionally secretive birds, predominantly diurnal but often most active during crepuscular hours, moving stealthily through the undergrowth. They are primarily ground-foragers, meticulously probing leaf litter and soft soil with their bills to locate food. While specif...
The Grey-legged Tinamou has a restricted and fragmented distribution, primarily found on specific 'tepuis' or table-top mountains within the Guiana Highlands of South America. Its main stronghold is Mount Duida in Amazonas state, southern Venezuela, which is also its type locality. The range exte...
Least Concern
- The name 'Tinamou' originates from the indigenous Galibi term 'tinamu', meaning 'hidden tail', referring to their short, inconspicuous tails. - Unlike most birds in the ancient Palaeognathae group (which includes flightless ratites), tinamous like the Grey-legged Tinamou are capable of flight, ...