Crested Caracara
Caracara plancus
The Crested Caracara is an unmistakable open-country raptor associated with Florida prairie and working ranchlands.
The Crested Caracara is an unmistakable open-country raptor associated with Florida prairie and working ranchlands.
A large, long-legged falcon with a black cap, white neck, dark body, white wing patches, and orange-red facial skin.
Often walks on the ground, perches on fence posts, and patrols roadsides and pastures for food.
Not considered dangerous to people. Give perched and nesting birds ample space.
Florida’s breeding population is federally protected as threatened. It is also protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Nest disturbance and unauthorized take are prohibited.
Habitat:
Scrub and Dry Prairie, Grasslands and Agricultural Areas
Area / Range:
Central Florida, South Florida
Diet:
Eats carrion, insects, reptiles, small mammals, and other available prey.
Behavior:
Often walks on the ground, perches on fence posts, and patrols roadsides and pastures for food.
Daytime
Active Times:
Best time to see:
Morning and late afternoon in open ranch country
Florida Native Status:
Native
Conservation Status:
Federally Threatened in Florida
Safety Level:
Observe From a Distance
Safety Information:
Not considered dangerous to people. Give perched and nesting birds ample space.
Benefits to Property:
Controls some insects and small vertebrates and provides a strong indicator of intact open-country habitat.
Property Concerns:
Road traffic, nest disturbance, and conversion of prairie or ranch habitat are major concerns.
Fun Fact:
Although it looks hawk-like, it belongs to the falcon family. It spends more time walking than most raptors.
Wildlife Laws:
Florida’s breeding population is federally protected as threatened. It is also protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Nest disturbance and unauthorized take are prohibited.
Identification:
A large, long-legged falcon with a black cap, white neck, dark body, white wing patches, and orange-red facial skin.