How to identify the Chimango Caracara

To correctly identify the Chimango Caracara (Milvago chimango), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

37-43 cm (14.5-17 in)

Wingspan

75-90 cm (29.5-35.5 in)

Weight

250-350 g (8.8-12.3 oz)

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Overall dull brown plumage. The head and underparts are paler, often a buffy-brown, with fine dark streaking on the breast and flanks. The back and upperwings are darker brown. The primary flight feathers are dark, contrasting with paler bases, visible in flight. The tail is relatively short, dark brown with a pale terminal band, which can be indistinct.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Relatively slender, hooked beak, yellowish-horn colored, with a pale cere.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Yellowish-orange to dull yellow.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Its relatively small size for a caracara, dull brown plumage, pale underparts with streaking, and yellowish legs and cere are key features. In flight, the pale patches at the base of the primaries are often noticeable.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles are generally darker and more heavily streaked than adults, particularly on the underparts. Their plumage can appear more mottled, and the pale tail band may be less defined or absent. The cere and legs may be duller yellow or grayish.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes. Plumage may appear slightly worn or faded outside of the molting period.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Minimal to none. Males and females are generally indistinguishable in plumage and size, though females may average slightly larger.

Key field marks

• Size and Shape. Look for a medium-small raptor, smaller than most buzzards but larger than a kestrel, with a relatively slender build and a somewhat long tail for a falcon.
• Plumage Color. Note the overall dull brown coloration, paler buffy-brown underparts with fine streaking, and darker upperparts. Lack of strong patterns or bright colors is key.
• Head and Face. Observe the pale, uncrested head and the yellowish cere and legs. Dark eyes are also characteristic.
• Flight Pattern. Watch for steady wing beats and glides. In flight, look for the pale patches at the base of the primary flight feathers, which can be a good field mark.
• Behavior. Its frequent presence on the ground, walking and foraging, and its opportunistic scavenging habits are strong indicators.
• Vocalization. Listen for the harsh, rattling 'kree-kree-kree' or 'chima-chima-chima' call, which is quite distinctive.

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