West Mexican Chachalaca

The West Mexican chachalaca, a member of the Cracidae family, is a bird of considerable size, measuring from 58.5 to 68.5 cm in length. A male specimen has been recorded at a weight of 760 grams. The species exhibits a crown and nape of a dull brownish-gray hue, while the upperparts are a pale brownish olive. The tail feathers are a touch grayer with broad buff tips. Its breast is a grayish olive, and the belly is whitish with a buff wash. A distinctive feature is the hazel eye, encircled by bare carmine skin.

Identification Tips

To identify the West Mexican chachalaca, look for its sizeable body, long tail with buff tips, and the contrast between the grayish olive breast and the lighter belly. The bare carmine skin around the eye is also a key characteristic to note.

Habitat

This bird is primarily found in mature deciduous forests, thorn scrubs, and secondary forests. It can also be seen in pine-oak forests, mangroves, and palm plantations on occasion.

Distribution

Endemic to Mexico, the West Mexican chachalaca inhabits a region stretching from northern Jalisco to southwestern Chiapas and extends inland to southwestern Puebla. Its elevation range spans from sea level up to 2,400 meters.

Behaviour

The West Mexican chachalaca is known to forage predominantly on the ground, although it will venture into vegetation. It is a social bird, often seen in groups.

Song & calls

The principal vocalization of the West Mexican chachalaca is a distinctive "gruff, throaty, rhythmic chattering" that can be heard echoing through its habitat.

Breeding

The breeding season for this species occurs from April to August, with a peak in June and July. Both sexes contribute to nest building, creating a shallow platform of sticks lined with leaves and bromeliads, positioned up to 5 meters above the ground. Clutches typically consist of three eggs, with the female incubating the eggs and both parents caring for the young.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the West Mexican chachalaca is composed of about two-thirds fruit, supplemented with flowers, seeds, leaves, and insects.

Conservation status

The IUCN has classified the West Mexican chachalaca as Least Concern. It is considered fairly common to common within its range and is hunted for food, though not to a degree that threatens its population.