Guacharaca Variable
Variable Chachalaca
Ortalis motmot
Song
Variable Chachalaca
Appearance: The Variable Chachalaca is a medium-sized bird with a distinctive appearance. It has a long tail, a blackish head with a bare red throat patch, and a mainly brownish body. Their plumage can vary geographically, with some populations displaying more vibrant colors or patterns.
Habitat: Variable Chachalacas are found in a variety of habitats in Colombia, including tropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, and wooded areas. They are often seen in dense vegetation, where they can feed on fruits, seeds, and insects.
Behavior: Variable Chachalacas are social birds that usually forage and roost in groups. They are highly vocal, communicating with each other through a mix of calls. They are primarily ground feeders, using their strong legs to scratch for food and their bills to crack open seeds and fruits.
Breeding: Breeding behavior of Variable Chachalacas typically occurs during the rainy season. They build nest platforms in trees and lay a clutch of eggs. Both parents contribute to nesting duties. Males may engage in courtship displays involving vocalizations and posturing to attract females.
Conservation Status: The Variable Chachalaca is considered of Least Concern according to the IUCN.
Distribution
Amazon Region: In the Amazon region of Colombia, Variable Chachalacas can be found in the dense tropical rainforests and riverine habitats. They are known to occur in areas such as the Amazon River basin, including departments like Amazonas, Caquetá, and Putumayo.
Taxonomy
The Variable Chachalaca (Ortalis motmot)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Galliformes
- Family: Cracidae
- Genus: Ortalis
- Species: Ortalis motmot
Vocalization
Chachalaca Call: The most notable vocalization of the Variable Chachalaca is a loud and repetitive "chachalaca" call, from which the bird gets its name. This call is often described as a raucous and rhythmic series of loud, cackling notes that can carry over long distances through the forest.
Group Chorus: Variable Chachalacas are social birds that often vocalize in groups, producing a cacophony of calls that may include various chattering, squawking, and whistling sounds. These group choruses can be heard especially during the early morning or around dusk when the birds are most active.
Alarm Calls: When alarmed or threatened, Variable Chachalacas emit sharp, high-pitched alarm calls to alert others in the group of potential danger. These alarm calls serve as a warning signal and can vary in intensity and pitch depending on the perceived threat.
Courtship Calls: During the breeding season, male Variable Chachalacas may engage in elaborate courtship displays accompanied by specific vocalizations to attract mates. Courtship calls are often softer and more melodious compared to their typical chachalaca calls.
Territorial Calls: Variable Chachalacas use vocalizations to establish and defend their territories against intruders or rival groups. These territorial calls may include aggressive vocalizations and are part of the bird's social dynamics in maintaining boundaries within their habitat.
