Blue-crested bustard (SciiFii)

The blue-crested bustard (Somniavis cristatus), also known as the American bustard and the North American bustard, is species of bird of the family Cracidae, most closely related to chachalacas (Ortalis), despite its name, that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the open woodlands, humid grasslands, savannas, and scrublands to help boost biodiversity. The blue-crested bustard is a fairly large bird, with adults standing over a meter (3.3 meters) tall, with wingspans that reach up to two meters wide. They are poor fliers, only using their wings for short-distance flight when needed, and cannot perch onto branches. These birds are the New World equivalent to the bustards, both filling a similar ecological niche within their enviornments and having a similar bodyplan. Blue-crested bustards are opportunistic omnivores, having a wide diet that ranges from seeds, nuts, invertebrates, and even small vertebrates. They often travel loose groups from 4-15 individuals, and lay their eggs in dirt mounds. Males are larger than females, sporting a cassowary-like crest on their head, featuring a blue interior and a distinct white ring. Females have smaller crests that lack the blue coloration and the ring. They are quite territorial and will guard their territory from other blue-crested bustards. The conservation status of Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts and the blue-crested bustard's wide range.
Category:Animals
Category:Species
Category:SciiFii