Oreophasis derbianus
The Horned Guan (Oreophasis derbianus) is a magnificent, turkey-like gamebird endemic to the cloud forests of southern Mexico and western Guatemala, instantly recognizable by its distinctive, bright red, fleshy 'horn' protruding from its forehead. This impressive avian, measuring 81-85 cm in length and weighing 3.2-4.5 kg, exhibits largely glossy black plumage, adorned with a white belly, white primary bases visible in flight, and striking red legs. Its dark, cryptic coloration with a subtle ...
This species primarily inhabits humid montane evergreen and cloud forests at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,350 meters, preferring steep slopes and dense undergrowth.
The Horned Guan is primarily frugivorous, feeding extensively on a variety of wild fruits, especially those from trees in the families Lauraceae and Arecaceae. They also consume leaves, flowers, and seeds, foraging both arboreally and on the forest floor.
Horned Guans are primarily diurnal, spending their days foraging both in the canopy and on the forest floor, though they roost high in trees at night. They employ a 'pluck and swallow' foraging strategy, plucking fruits, leaves, and flowers from branches while perched or by making short hops. Whi...
The Horned Guan's restricted and fragmented range spans southern Mexico and western Guatemala, inhabiting high-elevation montane forests. In Mexico, it is found in the highlands of Chiapas, notably within the El Triunfo Biosphere Reserve and other isolated cloud forest patches. In Guatemala, its ...
Endangered
- The 'horn' of the Horned Guan is not made of bone but is a keratinized extension of the frontal bone, covered in skin, similar to a rhinoceros horn in composition. - It is often referred to as 'Pavo de Cacho' (Horned Turkey) by local indigenous communities in its range. - Despite its turkey-lik...