Bird Guide

Moustached Turca

Pteroptochos megapodius

Least ConcernEndemicInvertebratesShrublandCavity nestMedium · 114 g

About the Moustached Turca

The moustached turca is a passerine bird which is endemic to Chile and belongs to the tapaculo family Rhinocryptidae. Common names of this species include "Turco" or "Turca". It is a terrestrial bird that burrows its nest on steep hillsides and uses flight for short distances. It is not threatened, yet it is unfortunately an understudied species of bird.

Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

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The moustached is a stocky bird, approximately 22.5 cm (8.9 inches) long and a mass between 95–125 grams (3.4–4.4 oz). It has a heavy bill, cocked tail and disproportionately big feet, from which its name originates from. The adult plumage is mostly cinnamon brown with white barring on the breast, belly and undertail-coverts. The top of their head can appear gray-brown. They have a dark eyestripe, white eyebrow and a white broad stripe on the sides of the throat. The bill and legs are black in adults. Voice: The moustached turca's repertoire is extensive. As of today, six vocalizations have been identified, the song, bubbling call, guerk, guk and the gweek. Its song is a series of low, hooting notes lasting for 5 to 10 seconds. The turca will mostly vocalize during the morning and at dusk, however song and calls can also be heard throughout the day.

Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

Where the Moustached Turca lives

Regular range

When to see the Moustached Turca

Peak activity in October · a resident species across most of its range

Easily confused with

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