Caracara facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Caracara |
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| Mountain caracara Phalcoboenus megalopterus |
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Polyborinae or Caracarinae
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Caracaras are amazing birds of prey. This means they hunt and eat other animals. They are part of the falcon family. You can find Caracaras in South America, Central America, and the southern United States.
Unlike many falcons, Caracaras are not usually super-fast flyers. They often act as scavengers. This means they eat animals that are already dead. Some Caracaras, like the red-throated caracara, have a special diet. They enjoy eating insects and the young (called larvae) of bees and wasps.
Understanding Caracara Species
Caracaras are a diverse group of birds. Scientists are still learning about their exact family tree. However, most experts agree there are five main groups, called genera. Within these groups, there are 11 different types of Caracara species alive today.
Caracara Family Tree
All Caracaras were once grouped under one genus, Polyborus. But now, they are divided into these five living genera:
- Daptrius
- Ibycter
- Phalcoboenus
- Caracara
- Milvago
Ancient Caracaras
Scientists have also found bones of Caracaras that lived long ago. These extinct species were discovered in places like the La Brea tar pits. These pits are famous for trapping ancient animals. This helps us learn about Caracaras from the past.
