Municipality of Tourist Interest
Animals of the Brazilian Fauna
Seriema
Nome Científico
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Nome Científico
Cariama cristata
Características
The seriema is a medium-sized terrestrial bird with light gray plumage and long, erect feathers on its head that resemble a crest. It has long, strong legs adapted for running. It can reach up to 90 cm in height.
Ocorrência
They inhabit open fields, savannas, and pastures of South America, especially in Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. They prefer areas of low vegetation, where they can observe and hunt their prey.
Comportamento
These birds are diurnal and spend much of the day foraging for food on the ground. They are known for their loud, resonant calls, which can be heard over long distances. Seriemas live in pairs or small family groups.
Alimentação
Seriemas have a varied diet, including insects, small mammals, lizards, snakes, and fruits. They are opportunistic predators and are known for slamming their prey against the ground to kill them before eating them.
Reprodução
The breeding season varies, but generally occurs in the spring. They build nests in low trees or shrubs, where the female lays 2 to 3 eggs, which incubate for 24 to 30 days. Both parents participate in incubation and caring for the chicks.
Preservação
They are not currently threatened with extinction, but they face challenges due to habitat loss and collisions with fences and vehicles. They adapt well to modified environments, such as agricultural areas.
Curiosidades
The seriema is one of the few birds that can kill and eat venomous snakes, immobilizing them with its feet and striking them with its beak. Its name comes from Tupi, meaning "song of the plains," a reference to its characteristic song.