Hoatzin

Overview

Hoatzin (Opisthocomus hoazin) is a species of Hoatzin (Opisthocomidae) in the order Hoatzin. A bizarre leaf-eating bird with a blue face, spiky orange crest and a smell like manure; chicks have claws on their wings for climbing before they can fly; ferments leaves in a crop like a ruminant; lives in flooded Amazonian forests.

Scientific Classification

Genus: Opisthocomus; binomial: Opisthocomus hoazin; authority: (Müller, PLS, 1776). Typical size: 60-70cm. Average lifespan: 10-15 years.

Distribution

Breeding range: South America.

Conservation Status

This taxon is listed as Extant (living) in the IOC World Bird List.

Remarks

No additional remarks recorded.