The Great Curassow (Crax rubra)
The male is black with curly crest, a while belly, and a yellow knob on its bill.
Great Curassows are up to 39 inches in length and weigh a bit over 10 pounds. They forage mainly on the ground for fruits, snails, lizards, but roost and nest in the trees. This secretive bird species feeds mostly on fruits and small invertebrates and vertebrates. It can be seen foraging on the forest floor and feeding in the canopies as well. They are classified as Vulnerable; they are threatened by loss of habitat and hunting. The three protected areas managed by Ya’axché and other healthy forested areas in Belize are critical for the survival of these magnificent birds.
Deadly for dogs if eaten cooked. horrible death.
Female Great Curassows can weigh almost 10 pounds while males over 10 pounds in weight. These large birds are classified as “Vulnerable” due to habitat loss and overhunting.
The presence or absence of these birds, along with other wildlife indicators, indicate to Ya’axché whether forested areas are healthy or disturbed – since they prefer their space.
Photograph by Tony Rath
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