TaxonHub
Southern Caracara

Southern Caracara

Caracara plancus

A large predatory bird of prey native to South America, characterized by its distinctive appearance and opportunistic feeding behaviors.

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Southern Caracara
Southern Caracara
Southern Caracara
Southern Caracara
Southern Caracara
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Ecology & Habitat

Habitat

Diverse landscapes including grasslands, savannas, open woodlands, and agricultural regions across southern Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Bolivia

Ecological Role

Key predator and scavenger in ecosystem, controlling small vertebrate populations and participating in carrion removal, contributing to nutrient cycling

Morphology

  • SKIN COAT Predominantly brown and black plumage, with distinctive barred and streaked feather patterns
  • LIMBS WINGS Strong talons, wingspan of 110-130 cm, adapted for ground hunting and perching
  • HEAD SENSORY Large hooked beak, keen binocular vision, dark crown with white neck patches, distinctive facial coloration
  • BODY STRUCTURE Large raptor with robust build, approximately 50-65 cm in length, weighing 0.8-1.5 kg, with broad wings and powerful legs
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Wiki
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Related Species in Falconidae