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Photo: © David Stejskal eBird S22518247 Macaulay Library ML 137535201
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Black Curassow

Crax alector
Paujil Negro
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Song

Black Curassow

Appearance: The Black Curassow is a robust, ground-dwelling bird with black plumage. It has a distinctive blue bare skin patch around the eyes and throat. Males are larger than females and may have a bigger casque on the top of their head. These birds have strong legs and feet adapted for running on the forest floor. 
Habitat: Black Curassows inhabit the humid tropical forests, including both lowland and montane forests. They are found in areas with dense vegetation, ranging from primary rainforests to secondary forests. 
Behavior: Black Curassows are terrestrial, foraging for fruits, seeds, and insects on the forest floor. They are known for their loud vocalizations, including deep calls and alarm sounds to communicate within their group. 
Breeding: Breeding behavior occurs during the rainy season. Females build ground nests where they lay eggs, and both parents take part in incubating the eggs and caring for the young. 
Conservation Status: The Black Curassow is classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN.

Distribution

The Llanos is a vast tropical grassland region known for its unique biodiversity and ecosystems. The Black Curassow is one of the bird species that can be found within the Llanos region. In this region, Black Curassows inhabit the gallery forests, riparian areas, and forested patches that are interspersed within the grasslands. 
They are often found near water sources, such as rivers, streams, and ponds, which are characteristic features of the Llanos landscape.The distribution of Black Curassows in the Llanos can vary based on the availability of suitable habitat and food resources. These birds may occur in different parts of the Llanos region, depending on factors such as forest connectivity, proximity to water, and protection from human disturbances.

Taxonomy

The Black Curassow (Crax alector)
  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Aves (Birds)
  • Order: Galliformes
  • Family: Cracidae
  • Genus: Crax
  • Species: Crax alector

Vocalization

Hollow Hooting: The Black Curassow's vocalizations are often described as a deep and resonant hollow hooting sound. These hoots can carry over long distances in the dense forest environment where they typically reside. 
Mating Calls: During the breeding season, male Black Curassows may produce distinctive calls to attract females and establish their presence in the territory. These mating calls can vary in intensity, pitch, and duration, serving to advertise the male's fitness and reproductive readiness.
Alarm Calls: Black Curassows use different vocalizations to alert each other of potential threats or predators in the vicinity. These alarm calls are characterized by their sharp and loud nature, signaling danger and prompting group members to take evasive action. 
Contact Calls: Black Curassows also use contact calls to maintain communication with other members of their group or family. These calls can help individuals stay connected in the thick vegetation of the forest and coordinate movements within their social structure.
Territorial Calls: Male Black Curassows may vocalize to defend their territory against intruders or rival males. These territorial calls are often intense and may escalate into confrontations or displays to establish dominance and ownership of a particular area.