The bearded guan is a species of bird in the family Cracidae, the chachalacas, guans, and curassows. It is found in Ecuador and Peru. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forest. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs in the humid montane and cloud forests of southern Ecuador and northern Peru, typically along steep slopes, ridges, and forested valleys. It uses both primary forest and well-structured secondary growth where large fruiting trees are present. Birds often forage in the mid to upper canopy but will descend to edges and clearings when trees are fruiting. It is generally absent from highly fragmented or heavily disturbed habitats.
Altitude Range
1200–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The bearded guan is a shy Andean cracid that plays an important role in seed dispersal for montane forest trees. It often reveals itself at dawn and dusk by a distinctive wing-whirring display and deep booming calls. Habitat loss and hunting pressure have reduced many local populations.
Temperament
shy and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with glides
Social Behavior
Usually encountered in pairs or small family groups that move quietly through the canopy. Roosting can be communal in sheltered trees. Nest is a simple platform placed in dense foliage or tangles, with both parents attending the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Voice includes deep, resonant booming notes and low clucks, often delivered at dawn. During display, the bird produces a loud wing-whirring sound that carries through the forest.
Plumage
Mostly dark brown with fine pale scaling on the neck and breast, and a slightly rufous belly and undertail. The throat shows a small, bristly “beard” of dark feathers. Long, broad tail and soft, slightly glossy body feathers typical of guans.
Diet
Primarily consumes fruits and berries from a variety of canopy and midstory trees, swallowing whole and later dispersing seeds. Also takes tender leaves, flowers, and occasional seeds. Animal matter is minimal but may include small invertebrates taken opportunistically with fruit.
Preferred Environment
Forages mainly in the mid to upper canopy of humid montane forest, following fruiting trees and edges. Will use secondary forest and forest edges where fruit availability is high.
