Northern Screamer Bird Details
Chauna chavaria
Northern Screamer,Chaja, Screamer Goose;
NA
Carl Linnaeus, 1766
Anseriformes (DUCKS)
Anhimidae
Chauna
Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, Ecuador, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana
Appearance :
The adult Northern Screamer has a predominantly gray-brown body with a lighter underbelly. It features a distinctive black crown and long neck, with striking yellow-orange facial skin. Long, strong legs with webbed feet, adapted for swimming.
Behaviour :
Generally social birds that are often seen in pairs or small groups. They are known for their loud, honking calls, which can be heard over long distances. Exhibits strong territorial behavior, especially during breeding season.
Habitat :
Prefers freshwater wetlands, including lakes, rivers, and marshes with abundant vegetation. Often found in areas with open water and nearby grasslands or savannas.
Diet :
Primarily herbivorous, feeding on aquatic plants, seeds, and grasses. Occasionally consumes insects and small invertebrates, particularly during the breeding season when protein is essential.
Conservation Status :
Least Concern
Distribution :
Found primarily in tropical regions of South America. Range includes countries like Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Brazil, Bolivia, and parts of the Guianas.
Population Size :
Population estimates are difficult to determine precisely, but it is considered stable across its range.
Life Span :
The Northern Screamer can live up to 10 to 15 years in the wild.
Body And Tarsus:
- Body: The Northern Screamer has a robust body with long legs and a long neck, giving it an elegant stance. It is characterized by its distinctive calls and striking plumage.
- Tarsus Length: Approximately 10 to 12 cm (3.9 to 4.7 in).
Head And Bill :
- Head: The head is relatively small compared to the body, with a distinctive black crown.
- Bill: The bill is relatively short, straight, and slightly curved at the tip.
- Bill Length: About 3 to 4 cm (1.2 to 1.6 in).
Length :
Ranges from 65 to 76 cm (26 to 30 in).
Neck :
ong and slender, allowing the bird to forage for aquatic plants and seeds.
Size :
Medium to large waterfowl,
Tail Details :
- Tail Shape: Short and rounded, not very prominent compared to the body.
- Tail Length: Approximately 15 to 20 cm (5.9 to 7.9 in).
- Feathers: The body is mostly gray-brown with lighter underparts. The wings are darker with some contrasting patterns. The neck and head have distinctive black and yellow-orange markings.
Weight :
Generally weighs between 2 to 3.5 kg (4.4 to 7.7 lbs).
Wing :
Broad and strong wings, suitable for both swimming and some short-distance flight.
Wing Span :
Approximately 120 to 130 cm (47 to 51 in).
Facial Feature :
The Northern Screamer has a distinctive appearance with a small head and a striking black crown. Its yellow-orange facial skin around the eyes and beak adds to its unique look.
Nest Details :
- Nest: The nest is typically built near or over water, often in tall grasses or reeds to provide cover and protection.
- Nest Made Up Of: Grass, Reeds, Other vegetation, Sometimes lined with feathers for insulation.
Breeding Season :
Typically breeds during the rainy season when food is abundant, which can vary by region.
Nesting Season :
Nests are constructed before the onset of the breeding season, and egg-laying usually occurs shortly thereafter.
Egg Color :
The eggs are generally pale blue to greenish.
Egg Length :
Approximately 5 to 6 cm (2.0 to 2.4 in).
Egg Width and Weight :
- Egg Width: About 3 to 4 cm (1.2 to 1.6 in).
- Egg Weight: Eggs weigh around 50 to 60 grams (1.8 to 2.1 oz).
Clutch Size :
Usually consists of 4 to 6 eggs, but can occasionally range from 3 to 8 eggs.
No. of Broods :
Typically raises one brood per breeding season.
Incubation Period :
Lasts about 28 to 30 days.
Nestling Period :
Chicks fledge approximately 10 to 12 weeks after hatching.
Vocalization :
The Northern Screamer is known for its loud, distinctive calls, which can be described as honks or screams.
Sex Demorphism :
Males may be slightly larger, but this difference is subtle.
Migration Details :
The Northern Screamer is primarily a resident species and does not migrate long distances.
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