Bird · GBIF taxon 5229429
Plain Chachalaca
Ortalis vetulaAlso known as Chachalaca, Mexican Chachalaca
Plain chachalacas fill dense subtropical thickets with a deafening, rhythmic chorus early every morning. These arboreal, pheasant-like birds move skillfully through tangled branches in search of berries, leaves, and buds. Highly gregarious year-round, small family groups actively defend territories using synchronized vocal duets.
ArborealVocalSocial
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Cedar berries
- Figs
- Insects
Predators
- Coyotes
- Bobcats
- Raptors
ThreatsHabitat fragmentation, clearing of dense thickets, and local hunting
HabitatsSubtropical thickets, riverine brushlands, edge habitats, and urban gardens
Life span8–12 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- OrderGalliformes
- FamilyCracidae
- GenusOrtalis
- SpeciesOrtalis vetula
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Listen at Dawn: Scan dense tree canopies early in the morning when loud calling reveals roost locations.
- Keep Distance: Observe foraging flocks quietly from trail edges to avoid scaring them into dense brush.
- Look Up: Check mid-story tree branches where these noisy birds feed on native fruits and buds.
Co-Occurring Galliform no rights reserved · cc0
Image unavailableClose Relative 
Family Member (c) Ricard Busquets Reverte, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
Family Member no rights reserved · cc0
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