The horned guan is an endangered species in an ancient group of birds of the family Cracidae, which are related to the Australasian megapodes or mound builders (Megapodiidae). It is found in Mexico, Guatemala, and possibly Honduras.
Region
Mesoamerican Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs in steep, epiphyte-rich cloud forests of southern Mexico (Chiapas) and Guatemala, with historical records possibly from Honduras. Prefers mature, tall-canopy montane forests with abundant fruiting trees and dense understory. Often associated with ravines and ridge forests where human access is limited. It relies on contiguous forest tracts and uses the midstory to canopy for foraging and roosting.
Altitude Range
1200–3500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The horned guan is the sole member of its genus and an ancient lineage within the Cracidae, noted for the distinctive red horn on its crown. It is a key seed disperser for many cloud-forest trees, making it an important indicator of intact montane habitat. Habitat loss and hunting are the primary threats to its survival, and it persists mostly in rugged, protected forests.
Temperament
shy and elusive
Flight Pattern
strong flier with rapid, heavy wingbeats followed by short glides
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or found in pairs; small family groups may form outside the breeding season. Likely monogamous, nesting high in trees on platform nests of sticks and leaves. Breeding occurs in the dry season when fruit is abundant nearby.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are deep, resonant booming notes that carry through the forest at dawn and dusk, interspersed with low grunts and soft clucks. Non-vocal sounds include loud wing-rushing noises during short flights between trees.
