Another Great Bird

The Great Curassow (Crax rubra) is another heavily hunted species. It is found throughout Central and South America and is ranked "Near Threatened" (with recommendations to uplist to "Vulnerable") by IUCN, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, based in Switzerland. Being that this curassow is approximately turkey-sized and is often found on the ground, it evidently makes a good hunting target. The males (above) are handsomely marked in black, with white underparts. They have a low frequency booming call as well as a growling call which can be heard here.

The Great Curassow is frequently seen along roadsides in the Gallon Jug Estate. Depending on the time of year, it can be found in pairs and at other times, in rather large flocks. Sometimes it mingles with the Ocellated Turkeys. Its abundance on this property is a good testament to Gallon Jug Estate's protected status.