Small-billed Tinamou

Overview

The small-billed tinamou (Crypturellus parvirostris) is a tinamou species commonly found in the dry savannas of Amazonian South America. It is one of 21 species in the genus Crypturellus and is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Approximately 22 cm (8.7 in) in length.
• Upperparts are dark brown, with grey to brownish underparts and head.
• Distinctive red bill and legs.

Habitat

This species prefers dry savanna but will also reside in lowland shrubland. Its range covers Amazonian South America, including Brazil (except the southeastern portion), northeastern Peru, eastern Bolivia, Paraguay, and northeastern Argentina.

Diet

The small-billed tinamou forages for fruit on the ground or from low-lying bushes. It also consumes small amounts of invertebrates, flower buds, tender leaves, seeds, and roots.

Did you know?

The species has been considered an ideal candidate for domestication because it can produce three to four broods per year and shows resistance to diseases that affect chickens.