Where does the Greater Ani live?
Crotophaga major
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Open the appThe Greater Ani lives in specific habitats and regions. Knowing where, and when, to look improves your chances of a successful sighting.
Biomes
Tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests, wetlands, savannas, and agricultural areas.
Geographic range
Central and South America, from eastern Panama south through Colombia, Venezuela, the Guianas, and Brazil, extending south to northern Argentina and Paraguay. Also found on Trinidad.
Preferred environments
Prefers open woodlands, forest edges, clearings, gallery forests along rivers and streams, mangroves, and areas with dense vegetation near water bodies. Often found in disturbed habitats and agricultural lands with scattered trees.
Elevation range
Typically found from sea level up to 1,200 meters (3,900 ft), occasionally higher.
Where to look
Forest Edges and Clearings
Look in areas where dense forest meets open spaces, such as along roadsides, agricultural fields, or riverbanks.
Wetlands and Riparian Zones
Often found near water, including swamps, marshes, and gallery forests along rivers and streams.
Agricultural Areas
Common in pastures and cultivated lands, especially where cattle or other livestock are present, as they feed on insects disturbed by the animals.
Mangroves
In coastal regions, they can be found in mangrove forests.
Field tips
- Look for groups. Greater Anis are rarely seen alone. Scan for small to large groups moving through vegetation or foraging on the ground.
- Listen for calls. Their loud, distinctive calls are often the first indication of their presence. Learn to recognize their 'whee-oo' whistle.
- Check near livestock. If in suitable habitat with cattle or horses, observe around the animals, as anis often follow them to catch insects.
- Observe flight. Their somewhat awkward, undulating flight in single file can be a good identification clue, especially when moving between trees.
Migration
Generally resident throughout its range, with no significant migratory movements. Local movements may occur in response to food availability or habitat changes.
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