Red-faced Guan

Overview

The red-faced guan (Penelope dabbenei) is a species of bird in the family Cracidae, found in southern Bolivia and northwestern Argentina. It is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, despite having a restricted range.

Identification

• Size: 63 to 69 cm (2.1 to 2.3 ft) in length, with one female recorded at 1,230 g (2.7 lb).
• Plumage: Rich brown overall with white or silvery flecking on the head, breast, and upper back.
• Markings: Obvious whitish supercilium, bare pinkish red facial skin, and a red dewlap.
• Voice: Song consists of random-sounding gruff notes in level series; alarm call is a loud, throaty 'kroa, kroa...' interspersed with whistled 'luuuii'.

Habitat

This species inhabits the cloudforest of the Yungas region on the east side of the Andes, preferring extensive tracts of large trees. It occurs in southern Bolivia and northwestern Argentina, primarily at elevations between 1,800 and 2,500 m (5,900 and 8,200 ft), though sometimes as low as 1,300 m (4,300 ft).

Diet

The red-faced guan forages in pairs, though larger groups have been observed, mostly in trees but also on the ground. Its diet consists mainly of fruits, along with leaves and arthropods.

Did you know?

The bird performs a distinctive wing-whirring display at dawn. Additionally, its IUCN status has improved significantly, shifting from Threatened in 1988 to Least Concern by 2004, largely due to its remote and inaccessible habitat.