The smallest and most ubiquitous falconid of Iberá, also called "chimango" for its peculiar call. Uniform brown plumage with a white tail tip very visible in flight, a faintly streaked breast and a greyish face. It measures 32 to 43 cm. Much smaller than the caracara, which it frequently follows to take advantage of its leftovers. Very confiding and adapted to the presence of humans.
Behaviour
A small opportunistic scavenger: it takes advantage of the carrion scraps that the caracara and the vultures leave behind, and also eats insects, earthworms, frogs and even garbage. Frequently attacked by lapwings and other birds defending their nests. Its call, a sharp, descending mew, is everywhere in the countryside.
How and when to see it
Year round. Seen in every habitat of the park, from the sandy beaches to the woodland edges.
Where to see it in the Iberá
The gateways of the Great Iberá Park where chimango caracara has confirmed presence:
Tours to see it
Verified providers operating at the gateways where chimango caracara lives. You contact them directly on WhatsApp from the app.
- Esteros Ñe’é
Experiences with local storytelling and a cultural take on the marshes.★ 5.0 - Gaucho Argentino
Horseback journeys across a network of refuges in Iberá. Multi-day rides with overnight…★ 5.0 - Jurassic Plant - Night Tour
The only carnivorous-plant garden in Argentina and a pioneer in Latin America. A guided…★ 5.0 - Irupé Excursiones
Guided hiking. Guided visit to museums, historic sites, chapels and trails of the town…★ 5.0
Species profile
- Common nameChimango Caracara
- Scientific nameMilvago chimango
- GroupBird
- StatusNative
Other species of the Iberá
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