The dusky-legged guan is a species of bird in the family Cracidae, the chachalacas, guans, and curassows. It is found in Uruguay, northeastern Argentina and southernmost areas of Paraguay and Brazil. In early 2021, the former subspecies P. o. bridgesi, found in southwestern Bolivia and northwestern Argentina, was elevated to species rank as Yungas guan.
Region
Southern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern and southeastern Brazil through eastern Paraguay and northeastern Argentina to Uruguay, favoring humid and semideciduous forests. It inhabits Atlantic Forest, Araucaria moist forests, riparian and gallery woodlands, and forest edges. The species readily uses second-growth, plantations, and even large parks where sufficient tree cover and fruiting trees are present. It spends much time in the mid-story and canopy but also descends to the ground to feed on fallen fruits.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A large forest cracid, the dusky-legged guan plays an important role as a seed disperser by swallowing fruits whole and moving seeds across the landscape. It is generally tolerant of disturbed habitats and can occur near human settlements where hunting pressure is low. In 2021, the former subspecies P. o. bridgesi was elevated to species rank as the Yungas guan. Local populations may decline due to hunting and deforestation, but the species remains widespread.
Temperament
wary but adaptable
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with occasional glides
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups and may form loose flocks at rich food sources. Roosts communally in tall trees. Nests are platform-like structures of sticks and leaves placed in trees or dense vegetation; clutch size is typically small. Monogamous pairs defend nesting areas but may tolerate neighbors where resources are abundant.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include deep, resonant hoots and clucking notes, often delivered from a concealed perch at dawn and dusk. Display flights are accompanied by loud wing-whirring sounds. Calls carry far through forest, serving to maintain contact within groups.
Plumage
Overall dark brown to blackish with a subtle greenish or bronzy sheen and fine pale edging on the neck and breast giving a scaly appearance. Long broad tail and relatively small head with bare facial skin and a small reddish throat wattle. Flight feathers and tail are darker, creating a slightly contrasting effect with the body.
Diet
Primarily frugivorous, feeding on a wide variety of native fruits such as figs, palm drupes, and berries. Also consumes seeds, flowers, and tender leaves, and occasionally supplements with invertebrates. Frequently swallows fruits whole and later regurgitates or defecates seeds intact, aiding forest regeneration. Will forage both in trees and on the forest floor for fallen fruits.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid-story and canopy of mature and secondary forests, along edges, and in riparian corridors. Regularly visits fruiting trees in forest fragments, plantations, and large wooded parks. Uses quiet, sheltered areas for prolonged feeding bouts.
