Spix’s Guan

Spix's Guan (Penelope jacquacu) is a species of bird in the family Cracidae. Spix's guan is found in the upper Orinoco River and western Amazon River basins of Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela. The weight and plumage of the four Spix's guan subspecies vary, and there are intergrades between them. They measure 66–76 cm in length. The P. j. jacquacu male and female weigh 1.24-1.36 kg and 1.14 kg, respectively. The nominated subspecies are brilliant scarlet below and bronzy olive-green above. Grant's is significantly darker; the crimson bottom is dark and the upper portions have a blue-green shine.

Typically foraging from the center to the tops of trees, but occasionally on the ground, Spix's guan forages alone or in small family groups. Although it has also been recorded to follow army ants to consume arthropods, its major food sources are fruits and seeds. Spix's guan is considered to be of Least Concern by the IUCN. Its estimated 5.9 million km² global range encompasses areas where it is widespread, at least in some areas. Although the exact population is unclear, it is believed to be declining.