Caracara

The Crested Caracara, a striking bird of prey, is known for its yellow-orange face, sharp black cap, white neck, and bold black-and-white plumage. It often walks on the ground and perches high in trees, and uniquely stalks prey on foot. Measuring about 22 inches long, with a wingspan over 4 feet, and weighing around 3 pounds, it cruises low with powerful wingbeats. Bold and opportunistic, it chases away vultures from kills. Despite its aggressive reputation, it is also seen as dashing and gallant. As the world's second-largest falcon, the Crested Caracara lives in northern Mexico and the southern U.S., recently expanding into the Northeast. Often called the "Mexican eagle," it is a common subject of folklore in Central and South America. Its name, "Caracara," comes from an indigenous word describing its rattling calls that are said to sound like a stick running along a fence.