Ortalis motmot
The Little Chachalaca (Ortalis motmot) is a captivating member of the Cracidae family, a group of gamebirds found exclusively in the Neotropics. Measuring approximately 40-50 cm (16-20 inches) in length and weighing 350-500 grams (12-18 ounces), it is one of the smaller chachalacas. Its plumage is predominantly dull olive-brown on the upperparts, contrasting with a darker head and neck, and distinctive rufous to chestnut underparts, particularly on the belly and undertail coverts. A reddish g...
Found in dense tropical and subtropical lowland forests, particularly in secondary growth, forest edges, and riparian zones, typically at low to moderate elevations.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming a wide variety of fruits, berries, and seeds, supplemented by leaves, flowers, and occasionally insects, typically gleaned from vegetation.
Little Chachalacas are diurnal birds, active from dawn to dusk, often roosting communally in dense tree cover at night. They forage both arboreally and terrestrially, gleaning fruits, leaves, and occasionally insects from branches and the forest floor. Their territorial behavior is marked by loud...
The Little Chachalaca is resident across a significant portion of northern South America, predominantly within the Guiana Shield region. Its breeding range encompasses eastern Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and northern Brazil, specifically north of the Amazon River in the states of ...
Least Concern
- Despite its common name, the Little Chachalaca possesses one of the loudest calls among its genus, often startling unsuspecting observers. - Its name 'chachalaca' is an onomatopoeia, directly mimicking its distinctive vocalization. - Chicks are remarkably precocial, able to run and even make sh...