Eudromia formosa
The Quebracho Crested Tinamou (*Eudromia formosa*) is a medium-sized, ground-dwelling bird belonging to the ancient family Tinamidae, characterized by its distinctive, long, wispy crest that often sweeps backwards. Measuring approximately 37-41 cm (14.5-16.1 inches) in length and weighing between 400-800 grams (0.88-1.76 lbs), its plumage is a cryptic blend of brownish-grey, finely barred and mottled with black and rufous, providing excellent camouflage in its woodland habitat. Key field mark...
Found in dry to semi-arid woodlands, scrublands, and open forests, particularly those dominated by 'Quebracho' trees. It inhabits lowland areas, generally below 700 meters in elevation.
Its diet is omnivorous, consisting mainly of seeds, fruits, buds, leaves, and a variety of insects such as ants, termites, and beetles, along with other small invertebrates.
This secretive tinamou is primarily crepuscular and diurnal, spending most of its time on the ground. It forages by slowly walking and pecking at the ground, often scratching through leaf litter with its strong feet to uncover food. Males are territorial during the breeding season, defending an a...
The Quebracho Crested Tinamou is endemic to the arid and semi-arid regions of the Gran Chaco in central South America. Its breeding range encompasses southeastern Bolivia, western Paraguay, and a significant portion of northern Argentina. In Argentina, it is found across the provinces of Salta, J...
Least Concern
- The Quebracho Crested Tinamou is part of an ancient avian lineage, with Tinamous representing one of the most basal groups of living birds. - Despite being able to fly, Tinamous are often considered the closest living relatives to the flightless ratites (like ostriches and emus) outside of thei...