page_title: Black caracara
section_title: Description
hierarchical_section_title: Black caracara / Description
caption_attribution_description: English: Black caracara (Daptrius ater) in flight, Cristalino Lodge, Southern Amazon, Brazil
context_page_description: The black caracara is a species of bird of prey in the family Falconidae found in Amazonian and French Guiana lowlands, commonly along rivers. They are locally referred to as Ger' futu busikaka in the Republic of Suriname or juápipi {nẽjõmbʌ} by the Emberá of Panama and Colombia. Both these names refer to multiple bird species within Falconidae. German-Brazilian ornithologist Helmut Sick also referred to this species as Gaviao-deAnta, literally translating to "tapir-hawk".
  Since migration has not been observed, they are considered sedentary; remaining in the tropics year round. Its genus Daptrius is often considered monotypic today, though some also include its close relative, the red-throated caracara otherwise separated in Ibycter.
  Daptrius ater are considered to be a widespread raptor, often spotted in groups of 2-5 individuals in tall trees. Nests built from sticks containing 2-3 spotted, brown eggs have been observed high up in trees, however little else is known about their breeding habits and reproduction.
  Typical of caracaras, this species is an omnivore as well as an opportunistic feeder, known to be both a predator, scavenger and forager.
context_section_description: Adult black caracara are a glossy black except for the distinctive white band on the base of the tail, and yellow to orange-red feet and face. The adults appear similar to those of their closest relative, the red-throated caracara, however they have distinctly long and narrow wings and tail, as well as a black beak. Additionally, the red-throated caracara can be distinguished from the black caracara by their red throats. The average adult length is 41-47cm. The females of this species average 350-440g and are typically larger than the males that have an average weight of 330g. 
  Juveniles can be identified by their dull black plumage, pale yellow face and the 3-4 black bars found on the rectrices.
  When observing flight from a distance, it is notable that Daptrius ater rarely soars, but instead can be seen continuously flapping.
caption: In flight, Pantanal, Brazil
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