Crested Caracara
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The Crested Caracara (Caracara cheriway), a new world raptor, resides primarily in Mexico, south to South America.
However, two different Crested Caracara (Caracara cheriway) populations can be found in the United States.
The Florida population, limited to the peninsula's central and southwest grassland areas, has been listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act since 1987.
The Southwest population inhabits the scrub lands of south Texas and south Arizona.
Like other raptors, they are predators that feed on a variety of mammals and reptiles within their territory. They are also known to be scavengers, consuming carrion along with vultures.
© 2009 Patricia A. Michaels