The crested caracara is one of the world’s most unusual birds of prey. A member of the falcon family, it is distinguished by its striking appearance and ground-based hunting habits.

Native to the open landscapes of the Americas, from the southernmost United States down to South America, this raptor stands out with its striking black and white body, fiery orange face and long legs.

The versatile crested caracara is both a formidable hunter and a scavenger, often seen striding confidently on the ground or soaring majestically in search of its next meal…

Crested Caracara Stats

• Scientific Name: Caracara plancus
• Other names: sometimes known as the “Mexican Eagle”
• Order: Falconiformes
• Family: Falconidae
• Length: 0.50-0.65 meters (1.6-2.1 feet)
• Weight: 0.8-1.3 kg (1.8-2.9 lb)
• Wingspan: 1.2-1.3 meters (3.9-4.3 feet)
• Where found: Southern United States down to South America, including parts of Central America

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