Birds
Mountain Caracara
Phalcoboenus megalopterus
Walking across bare Andean ground at altitudes where few birds venture, a mountain caracara searches for carrion and small prey, its black-and-white plumage and bright yellow face unmistakable against the thin high-altitude light.
Overview
The mountain caracara, Phalcoboenus megalopterus, is a Least Concern bird of prey found across the high Andes of Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. Its habit of foraging mostly on foot, its tolerance of extreme altitude, and its willingness to scavenge near human settlements make it one of the more adaptable raptors found anywhere in the high Andes.
A forager, not just a flier
Unlike many birds of prey that hunt primarily from the air, the mountain caracara spends much of its time walking across open ground, searching methodically for small prey, insects, and carrion.
Status
Least Concern, remaining widespread and secure across suitable high-Andean habitat throughout its range.
Mountain Caracara: common questions
What does the mountain caracara eat?
It is a carnivore, hunting small mammals, birds, and insects while also scavenging carrion, often walking across open ground on foot to search for food rather than hunting primarily from the air.
How high up does the mountain caracara live?
It is typically found above 3,000 metres and commonly above 4,000 metres across the high Andes, among the highest-dwelling birds of prey in South America.
Does the mountain caracara live near people?
Yes, it readily scavenges around Andean towns, rubbish sites, and livestock carcasses, taking advantage of human-associated food sources.
How can you identify a mountain caracara?
Look for its sharply patterned black, white, and grey plumage combined with bright yellow-orange bare facial skin and legs, a striking combination against the bare ground of its high-Andean habitat.