Crested Caracara (Falconidae)

The Crested Caracara occurs throughout the southwestern United States and Florida, the Caribbean, and Central America south to northern South America. It prefers semi-open to open habitats such as pastures, savannas, and river edges. It is an opportunistic feeder and will consume a wide variety of food items, including carrion, live prey, and vegetable matter. The Crested Caracara is unlikely to be confused within its range; note the conspicuous, broad white collar and face; the black cap, wings and underparts; and the orange facial skin and cere.