The Crafty Scavenger of Argentina

Written by Alanna McFadden

Published on April 23, 2024

In 2024, I was awarded the Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship by the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, which allowed me to act as a citizen diplomat during my time abroad. As part of a service project to raise awareness about the scholarship, this article was written to high-school students in Nebraska in collaboration with Reach the World.

Field Note: Animals

Introduction:

The crested caracara is a cunning scavenger and is known by many for its problem-solving and survival skills. According to South American folklore, the caracara represents adaptability, intelligence, and resourcefulness. On the flip side, its reputation as a vulture and association with eating dead animals has made it a symbol of death or opportunistic behavior to some. In the present day, this bird is still viewed as a spirit animal or totem who encourages those who believe in it to find inner strength, trust their instincts, and stay strong in adversity. 

What does this creature or plant look like?:

It is a medium sized bird (about the size of a crow), with black and white feathers, and a light blue beak. 

How did I feel when I saw it?:

I was in awe when I saw this bird up close on UBP's campus. I've seen them a couple times now in the garden or rummaging through the trash. They definitely live up to their reputation as quick-witted scavengers. They are such striking birds! 

Where does it live?:

It is the national bird of Mexico, but it is also native to parts of the U.S. (like Florida and Arizona) and South America. 

How does it use its environment to survive?:

It feeds on a variety of animals, insects, and eggs including rabbits, squirrels, skunks, frogs, snakes, lizards, turtles, alligator young, fish, large insects, and other birds (in addition to eating their own eggs and young!).

What can harm this creature or plant? Are we worried about it?:

The species unique to the Guadalupe Islands in Mexico went extinct in the 1900s. In parts of the US there are low numbers due to hunting and habitat destruction. As of now, it is of low concern for extinction in South America.

Location:

Córdoba Argentina