ExploreBirds

Crested Caracara

Caracara plancus

The Crested Caracara is a striking bird with a cool crest on its head. It loves to roam around open areas and is often seen walking on the ground looking for tasty snacks like insects and small animals.

Habitat: Grasslands

Appearance

The Crested Caracara is a distinctive raptor with a black cap, white neck, and barred chest. It has a striking orange-red face, yellow legs, and a stout, hooked bill. Its plumage is dark brown to black above with white wing patches, making it stand out.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderFalconiformesFamilyFalconidaeGenusCaracara
Crested Caracara
feathered trait badgecrested trait badgesocial trait badgescavenger trait badge
Crested Caracara

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

2/5 · Low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Crested Caracaras are actually falcons, but they act more like eagles or vultures!

Its bright orange-red face can flush yellow when it's excited or agitated!

These unique birds often walk and run on the ground more than they fly high!

They are the national bird of Mexico, known affectionately as the 'Mexican Eagle'!

Special abilities

Ability

Ground Patrol

Crested Caracara can walk and run efficiently on the ground because of its long legs, helping it hunt prey and scavenge.

Ability

Omnivore's Advantage

Crested Caracara has a varied diet, eating insects, small animals, and carrion, which helps it find food in many situations.

Ability

Clever Explorer

Crested Caracara has high intelligence and curiosity, which helps it adapt to different environments and find diverse food sources.

Ability

Food Bandit

Crested Caracara can steal food from other birds or mammals because of its bold nature, helping it get an easy meal.

Measurements & details

Length
49-60 cm
Wingspan
120-132 cm
Weight
1-1.6 kg
Lifespan
10-15 years
Top Speed
50 km/h
Clutch Size
1-4
Incubation
28-32 days

Diet & Feeding

This resourceful bird eats almost anything it can find, from insects to small animals.

Primary Foods

  • Insects
  • Lizards
  • Snakes
  • Small mammals
  • Carrion
  • Eggs

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

Caracara

Collections

Safety

Danger

2/5 · Low

Watch from a distance and don't try to touch wild birds.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Crested Caracara?

49-60 cm

What is Crested Caracara's wingspan?

120-132 cm

How much does Crested Caracara weigh?

1-1.6 kg

How long does Crested Caracara live?

10-15 years

How fast can Crested Caracara move?

50 km/h

What does Crested Caracara eat?

This resourceful bird eats almost anything it can find, from insects to small animals.

Where is Crested Caracara usually found?

Grasslands

How does Crested Caracara hunt?

Foraging

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