Cracid Information

The Cracids are a family of birds of the New World which includes curassows, guans, and chachalacas. They range from the southern border of Texas to northern Argentina. Cracids are part of the larger order of birds called Galliformes which also includes the pheasants, grouse, and megapodes.

Cracid populations have been on the decline due to overhunting for food and habitat loss. Their role as seed dispersers makes them vital to the ecological health of the tropical forests. Guans and curassows are inhabitants of the humid tropical forests. Chachalacas prefer the lower woodlands and brushy borders of streams.

• Taxon List

• Species Fact Sheets
  • Chachalacas
  • Guans
  • Curassows

• Range Maps

  Mesoamerica
  Northern South America
  Southwestern South America
  Brazil
  

• Curassow Husbandry Manual
  
  Curassow Zoo Diets

Submit a Question/Comment

Helmeted curassow by Nigel Hughes

send email to :Chelle Plasse, Chair Cracid TAG

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