The Plain Chachalaca is a member of the Cracidae family, which includes large turkey or chicken-like tropical birds such as the Blue-Billed Curassow, Great Curassow, and Baudo Guan. Like many of its relatives, the Plain Chachalaca is highly social, living in flocks of up to 15 birds. However, this wary bird can be hard to spot amid its preferred habitat of thick, thorny scrub. It’s reluctant to fly, escaping threats by running or climbing through the underbrush.
When spotted, this chicken-like bird epitomizes the name “plain,” with drab, olive-brown body plumage, grayish head and neck, and buffy belly. It has a long, dark, white-tipped tail with a green sheen. Its only trace of bright color is a small area of bare red skin on its throat, most noticeable on a displaying male.
Despite its unassuming looks and retiring habits, the Plain Chachalaca still manages to make itself known wherever it occurs. What gives its presence away?
Read on to find out more:
https://abcbirds.org/bird/plain-chacalaca
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