The Guadalupe caracara or mourning caracara is an extinct bird of prey belonging to the falcon family (Falconidae). It was, together with the closely related crested caracara, formerly placed in the genus Polyborus. It was also known as the quelili or the calalie.
Region
Baja California Pacific islands
Typical Environment
Formerly restricted to Guadalupe Island, where it used open scrub, rocky slopes, and coastal areas. It often patrolled around seabird colonies and shoreline wrack lines for carrion. The species exploited carcasses of introduced goats and dead seabirds, and also hunted small vertebrates and invertebrates. Widespread habitat degradation by feral goats likely reduced nesting sites and prey availability before its extinction.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1300 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the mourning caracara, it was endemic to Guadalupe Island off Baja California, Mexico, and is one of the few raptors known to have gone extinct in historic times. Its bold, inquisitive nature made it unusually approachable, which, combined with persecution and habitat degradation by introduced goats, hastened its demise. It was once placed in Polyborus and long treated as close to, or within, the crested caracara complex.
Temperament
bold and inquisitive
Flight Pattern
soaring glider with strong, deliberate wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen singly, in pairs, or loose groups around carcasses. Forms long-term pair bonds and defended nesting territories. Nests were likely placed on cliffs or in remaining tall vegetation, with both parents sharing incubation and chick-rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations were harsh, rattling cackles and croaks typical of caracaras. Calls carried well over open terrain and were given during interactions at food sources and territorial displays.
