Where does the Crested Caracara live?
Caracara cheriway
Spotted a bird? Identify it instantly with the Birdby app
Open the appThe Crested Caracara lives in specific habitats and regions. Knowing where, and when, to look improves your chances of a successful sighting.
Biomes
Grasslands, savannas, pastures, agricultural fields, open woodlands, and semi-arid scrublands.
Geographic range
Southern United States (Florida, Texas, Arizona), Mexico, Central America, and northern South America (south to northern Peru and the Amazon basin).
Preferred environments
Open, treeless or sparsely treed landscapes with scattered tall trees or utility poles for perching and nesting. They often frequent areas with livestock, as these provide carrion and attract insects.
Elevation range
Primarily lowlands, from sea level up to approximately 2,500 meters (8,200 feet).
Where to look
Open Grasslands/Pastures
These are prime habitats, especially those with scattered trees or fence lines for perching.
Agricultural Areas
Often found in fields, particularly where livestock are present, as they provide carrion and attract insects.
Roadsides
Frequently seen perched on utility poles, fence posts, or even on the ground along roadsides, scanning for food.
Near Carrion
Look for them alongside vultures at roadkill or other animal carcasses.
Field tips
- Scan Open Areas. Use binoculars to scan fence lines, utility poles, and isolated trees in open country. They often perch conspicuously.
- Look on the Ground. Unlike many raptors, they spend a significant amount of time walking and foraging on the ground. Watch for them in fields and pastures.
- Check for Vultures. If you see a group of vultures, there's a good chance a Crested Caracara might be nearby, especially at a carcass.
- Listen for Calls. Their distinctive rattling call can often alert you to their presence before you see them.
Migration
Mostly resident throughout its range. Northern populations in the US may show some local dispersal or short-distance movements, but generally not considered migratory.
Explore the Crested Caracara
Identify birds anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo & sound identification, full species database, and your personal life list.