Crested Caracara

Caracara plancus

Wingspan

120–130cm

Body length

50–65cm

Weight

900–1,300g

Profile

Life expectancy
Clutch size: 1–4 eggs
Global status
Activity
Migration

Identification

The black cap, pale neck sides and bare orange to red facial skin are striking. Long legs and an upright posture suit its frequent foraging on the ground. In flight, pale areas show on the wings and tail.

Colours

Plumage

Eyes

Legs & feet

Adult

Black crest, pale neck, dark body and pale wing patches. Facial skin and legs are yellowish orange to orange; the southern form is shown.

Behaviour

It regularly walks and runs on the ground and often takes off only after a few steps. Pairs stay together for long periods. Outside the breeding season, several birds may gather at plentiful food sources.

Breeding & rearing

Unlike many true falcons, the Crested Caracara builds its own nest of twigs. A tall tree, cactus or similar site is used. Both partners collect material and may reoccupy a proven nest site.

Diet

Prey examples

Beetles

Mice

Lizards

The Crested Caracara is a versatile forager for which carrion often plays a major role. It also catches insects and various small vertebrates.

Hunting

Hunting on foot Scavenging

On long legs it walks across open areas and seizes small animals on the ground. With its feet it also turns over loose material to find food hidden underneath.

Distribution

Range

Southern USA to Tierra del Fuego

Habitat

Open pastures, savannahs, farmland and semi-deserts with scattered trees. Avoids dense ground vegetation.

Open grassland with scattered acacias — Savannahs

Vast dry grassland with low hills — Steppes