Measurements
Both Sexes
- Length
- 21.7 in
55 cm - Weight
- 10.6–24.2 oz
300–685 g
Other Names
- Chachalaca
- Ortalide chacamel (French)
- Chachalaca común, Chachalaca olivácea, Chaca común, Chachalaca vetula (Spanish)
Cool Facts
- The Plain Chachalaca is the only member of the family of guans, currasows, and chachalacas to reach the United States. The family contains approximately 50 species, ranging from Mexico to southern South America, many of which are endangered by over-hunting.
- Unlike most other chicken relatives in North America, the Plain Chachalaca is largely arboreal, spending most of its time foraging in trees. It is commonly observed feeding in precarious positions, including upside down.
Habitat
Forest
Thickets, dense second growth, scrub and forest, primarily in semi-arid regions.
Food
Fruit
Nesting
Nesting Facts
- Clutch Size
- 2–4 eggs
- Condition at Hatching
- Downy and able to follow mother.
Nest Placement
Tree
Behavior
Foliage Gleaner
Conservation
Least Concern
Common throughout range where suitable habitat persists.
Credits
- Peterson, M. J. 2000. Plain Chachalaca (Ortalis vetula). In The Birds of North America, No. 550 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc., Philadelphia, PA.