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Ortalis cinereiceps
The Grey-headed Chachalaca (Ortalis cinereiceps) is a member of an ancient group of birds of the Cracidae family, which are related to the Australasian mound builders. These are medium-sized birds, similar in general appearance to turkeys, with small heads, long strong legs and a long broad tail. They are typically 51 cm long and weigh 500 g. This is a social bird, often seen in family groups of 6-12. It walks along branches seeking the fruit and berries on which it feeds, or flies off with an ani-like flap and glide.
The Grey-headed Chachalaca is an arboreal species, found in thickets with emergent trees, and scrubland with few trees. They prefer forest edges, often along rivers, streams and roads. It breeds in lowlands from eastern Honduras to northwestern Colombia (from South Chocó to the upper Atrato) at up to 1100 m altitude.
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