The helmeted curassow or northern helmeted curassow, is a large terrestrial bird in the family Cracidae found in the subtropical cloud-forest in steep, mountainous regions of western Venezuela and northern Colombia. There are two subspecies found in different mountain ranges. It is a mostly black bird with a white tip to its tail, a red bill and a distinctive grey casque on its forehead. The population of this bird is in decline and the International Union for Conservation of Nature has rated its conservation status as "endangered".
Region
Northern Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs in steep, humid montane forests of western Venezuela (Cordillera de Mérida) and the Sierra de Perijá along the Venezuela–Colombia border, with a smaller presence in northern Colombia. It favors subtropical cloud forest and mature secondary growth with dense understory. Birds keep close to ravines, ridge trails, and areas with abundant fruiting trees. It requires extensive, relatively undisturbed forest and avoids heavily fragmented habitats.
Altitude Range
500–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The helmeted curassow is a shy, terrestrial cracid notable for the gray bony casque on its forehead and a red bill. It plays an important role as a seed disperser in Andean cloud forests. Habitat loss and hunting have driven significant declines, and it is currently listed as Endangered. It usually stays on the forest floor, flying only in short bursts when disturbed.
Peggy, the Northern Helmeted Curassow at the Denver Zoo, USA
Rufous morph female
Temperament
shy and elusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; reluctant flier
Social Behavior
Usually found alone, in pairs, or in small family groups moving quietly along the forest floor. Nests are placed in low to mid-level trees, typically a platform of sticks and leaves. Clutches are small (often 1–2 eggs), and both adults contribute to care of the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
The call is a series of deep, far-carrying booming notes, often given at dawn. It also produces soft grunts and low whistles during contact or when alarmed.
