Southern Caracara

Caracara plancus

The Southern Caracara, also known as the Carancho, is a bird of prey found in South America. It is a medium-sized raptor with a distinctive appearance, featuring a black cap, white neck, and chestnut body. This opportunistic predator is known for its scavenging behavior, often feeding on carrion, small mammals, and reptiles. It is also an adept hunter, preying on insects, birds, and small mammals. The Southern Caracara is adaptable to a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and agricultural areas. It is often seen perched on fence posts or soaring in open areas. This species is not currently considered to be at risk, with a stable population across its range.

Habitat: Grasslands, savannas, agricultural areas

Southern Caracara
© Giles Laurent · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0