Ortalis ruficauda
The Rufous-vented Chachalaca (*Ortalis ruficauda*) is a medium-sized cracid, measuring approximately 50-60 cm (20-24 in) in length and weighing 400-600g (14-21 oz). Its plumage is characterized by a dull olive-brown body, a distinctive grey head and neck, a paler whitish belly, and the namesake rufous (reddish-brown) undertail coverts which serve as a key field mark. The long, dark tail is often tipped with white or cinnamon. This species is part of the Cracidae family, which includes curasso...
Found in tropical and subtropical dry forests, woodlands, scrubland, gallery forest, and secondary growth from sea level up to approximately 1200 meters (4000 feet) elevation.
Primarily frugivorous and folivorous, consuming a wide variety of fruits, seeds, leaves, and flowers, supplemented by insects and small invertebrates. They forage by gleaning from branches and occasionally from the ground.
Rufous-vented Chachalacas are primarily diurnal, active during daylight hours, often with peak calling activity at dawn and dusk. They are largely arboreal but will descend to the ground to forage or dust-bathe. Foraging typically involves gleaning fruits, leaves, and insects directly from branch...
The Rufous-vented Chachalaca is resident across northern South America and several Caribbean islands. Its primary native range encompasses northern Colombia, much of Venezuela, and the island of Tobago. Within this distribution, two subspecies are generally recognized: *Ortalis ruficauda ruficaud...
Least Concern
- The species' common name, "Chachalaca," is an onomatopoeic representation of its loud and distinctive call. - These birds are renowned for their highly vocal, often cacophonous, dawn and dusk choruses, making them one of the most audible birds in their range. - Despite their relatively large si...