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Overview
Tataupa tinamou

Tataupa tinamou

Wikipedia

The Tataupa tinamou is a type of tinamou commonly found in dry forest in subtropical and tropical regions in southeastern South America.

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Distribution

Region

Southeast South America

Typical Environment

Occurs widely in eastern and central Brazil, extending into eastern Paraguay, northeastern Argentina, and parts of Bolivia. Prefers dry to semi-humid woodlands, caatinga, cerrado edges, secondary growth, and scrubby thickets. It stays close to dense undergrowth or leaf litter where it forages and shelters. Also uses forest edges and patches within agricultural mosaics if cover remains.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1500 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size20–24 cm
Wing Span33–40 cm
Male Weight0.18 kg
Female Weight0.2 kg
Life Expectancy10 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 2/5

Useful to know

The Tataupa tinamou is a small, ground-dwelling bird that relies on camouflage and stillness to avoid predators. Males incubate clutches that may contain eggs from multiple females and also lead the chicks after hatching. Though a poor flier, it can burst into a short, explosive flight when flushed. Its clear, whistled call is often the best way to detect it in dense cover.

Gallery

Bird photo
Bird photo
Bird photo
Egg, Collection Museum Wiesbaden

Egg, Collection Museum Wiesbaden

Behaviour

Temperament

shy and secretive

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats; explosive flush over short distances

Social Behavior

Usually solitary or in pairs, sometimes small family groups. Nests on the ground in concealed sites lined with leaves. Males incubate and care for precocial chicks, often from a clutch laid by multiple females. Territorial calling is common at dawn and dusk.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A clear, plaintive two- to three-note whistle, often repeated at measured intervals. The call carries well through dry woodland and is frequently heard more than the bird is seen.

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