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Henry Sowell

Vol. I · Est. 2026

Pl. CXXXI
Field-journal plate: Plain Chachalaca
The Plain Chachalaca plate as rendered on the e-ink frame
As rendered on the frame

The Birds · Plate CXXXI

Plain Chachalaca

Ortalis vetula

Cracidae · Taxon 2090

Length50–66 cm
Wingspan76–84 cm
Weight680 g–1.1 kg

Field marks

  1. Large, chickenlike body with a long neck
  2. Small grayish head with a short dark bill and brown eye
  3. Dull olive-brown back and rounded wings
  4. Warm buff belly
  5. Long, rounded blackish tail with pale tips
  6. Long dull-gray legs; bare red throat patch visible when exposed

HabitatDense scrub, brushland, riverine woodland, forest edge, and dry or moist forest, often where thick understory occurs near water.

BehaviorUsually seen in pairs or small family groups, foraging in trees, shrubs, and on the ground for fruit and other plant matter. Climbs and hops through branches, runs readily, and gives loud, raucous choruses most often around dawn and dusk.

Palette

olive browngraywarm buffblackish brownthroat red