The bare-faced curassow is a species of bird found in humid forests of Central and South America. They are a mostly black curassow with a distinctive powder blue bill, red knob at the base, and red legs. The bare facial skin is blue in males and grayish in females. They travel in small groups foraging for fruit.

Habitats & Distribution

The Bare-Faced Curassow primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical forests, including seasonally flooded forests, gallery forests, and the edges of open woodlands. These birds are often found near rivers and streams, where dense vegetation provides ample cover and foraging opportunities. They are adapted to various forest types, ranging from mature, undisturbed primary forests to secondary growth forests that have undergone some degree of human disturbance. Geographically, this species is distributed across central South America. Its range includes parts of Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, and northern Argentina. Within these countries, the Bare-Faced Curassow's presence is often concentrated in protected areas such as national parks and wildlife reserves, although it can also be found in less protected habitats where suitable environmental conditions persist. The bird's adaptability to different forest habitats contributes to its wide distribution across the region.

Behaviours & Reproduction

Bare-Faced Curassows exhibit a polygamous mating system, where males often mate with multiple females. During the breeding season, males perform elaborate courtship displays, including vocalizations and physical gestures, to attract females. They may puff up their feathers, fan their tails, and produce distinctive hooting calls. The courtship takes place on the ground where the male shows off his bright yellow cere and wattles to gain the female's attention. Socially, these birds are generally found in pairs or small family groups, particularly outside the breeding season. The female takes on the primary role of nesting and caring for the young. She builds a well-hidden nest in dense vegetation and lays two to three eggs, which she incubates for around 28 days. Upon hatching, the precocial chicks are highly dependent on the mother for protection and guidance, although they are capable of following her and foraging shortly after birth. The cooperative nature of their small family units aids in the successful rearing of the offspring.

Diet

Fruit

Colors

Black with a powder blue bill and red knob at base of bill

Fun Facts

The bare-faced curassow is threatened primarily by habitat loss and hunting. They play an important role in dispersing seeds in the forest.

Conservation Status & Efforts

The Bare-Faced Curassow (Crax fasciolata) is currently listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. The population is suspected to be in decline due to habitat loss and fragmentation, primarily driven by deforestation for agriculture and cattle ranching, along with hunting pressures. These threats are exacerbated by the bird's preference for lowland forests and gallery forests which are rapidly diminishing. Conservation efforts include habitat protection through the establishment of protected areas and ecological reserves. Some specific measures involve the enforcement of hunting regulations and promoting sustainable land-use practices to mitigate habitat destruction. Community outreach and education programs are also in place to raise awareness about the species’ plight and the importance of preserving its natural habitat. Additionally, captive breeding programs aim to boost population numbers and potentially reintroduce individuals into secure areas.