The Northern Screamer (Chauna chavaria), also known as the Black-necked Screamer, is a large species of bird in the small family Anhimidae, the screamers. It is a resident breeder in northern Colombia, in Chocó, Antioquia, Córdoba, Sucre, Bolívar, Magdalena, Santander, and Cesar Departments and northwestern Venezuela, in Zulia, Mérida, and Trujillo States. On average, they are 88.9 cm (35 in) long and weigh about 3.9 kg (8.6 lb). They are designated as Near Threatened due to agriculture, transportation, biological resource use, water management, and pollution from waste water and industry.
Habitats & Distribution
The Northern Screamer thrives in wetland habitats, predominantly frequenting marshes, swamps, and the flooded areas around riverbanks. These environments provide the shallow water and dense vegetation that support its feeding and nesting requirements. Additionally, the bird can be found in regions with abundant aquatic plants and grasses, which are vital for its diet. Geographically, the Northern Screamer is confined to northern Colombia and western Venezuela. The species' range is relatively limited compared to other waterfowl, concentrating mainly in the lowland floodplains of the Magdalena River and Lake Maracaibo basin. These areas offer the specific ecological conditions necessary for its survival, such as suitable nesting sites and ample food resources.
Behaviours & Reproduction
The Northern Screamer exhibits a mostly monogamous pair-bonding system, with mated pairs remaining together throughout the year. These birds often inhabit marshes and wetlands, where they establish and defend territories against other pairs. Their social structure is relatively simple, maintaining small family units primarily consisting of the mated pair and their offspring. Reproduction involves building large nests constructed from aquatic vegetation, typically hidden among dense reeds or floating on open water. Together, the pair incubates a clutch of 2-7 eggs, although usually only 2-3 chicks successfully hatch and fledge. Both parents share responsibilities in raising the young, providing protection and food. A notable reproductive strategy is their territorial vocalization; duets or loud calls serve as both mate-bonding activities and deterrents to potential predators and rivals.
Diet
Feeds on the leaves, stems, and roots of aquatic plants. They usually graze like geese, sometimes in loose flocks.
Colors
Body mostly gray with black neck and whitish cheeks. In flight shows white underwings. Sexes similar.
Fun Facts
Huge, ungainly bird with thick red legs, red face, and a wispy crest. Body mostly gray with black neck and whitish cheeks. In flight shows white underwings. Sexes similar. Uncommon and sedentary in wetlands with some trees, often alone or in pairs, perching top of trees or next to the water. Eats aquatic plants. Unmistakable in range.
Conservation Status & Efforts
The Northern Screamer (Chauna chavaria) is currently classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. The population of this species is believed to be declining due to habitat loss and degradation, primarily driven by agricultural expansion and pollution. Deforestation, wetland drainage, and the conversion of natural habitats into farmland are significant threats that jeopardize the existing populations. Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection and restoration. Several protected areas have been established in the Northern Screamer's range to safeguard critical habitats. Additional measures include promoting sustainable agricultural practices and implementing reforestation projects to restore degraded areas. Environmental education campaigns aim to increase local awareness about the species and the importance of biodiversity conservation.
