Although the exact function of dust bathing is unknown, it may help to reduce oil and moisture in the plumage and control feather parasites. He will hop up on his perch and give a harsh, rattling call if approached too closely. When he throws his head back over his shoulders and voices a resounding cackle, it appears as if he is enjoying a private joke. When he becomes excited, the bright red bare skin on the face that makes Cracker look as if he is blushing will become pale. Cracker has been glove trained in traditional falconry methods and travels with the Center's education department encouraging conservation of wildlife and wildlands.
Caracaras are scavengers and share the trait of roadside feeding with vultures.
In fact, Caracaras often associate with vultures in the wild. The more aggressive among the species, Caracaras will often harass vultures into disgorging their food. Although actually a member of the falcon family, the Crested Caracara is also known as the Mexican Eagle and is Mexico's national bird.