About Ortalis squamata R.Lesson, 1829
The scaled chachalaca, scientifically named Ortalis squamata R.Lesson, 1829, is approximately 50 cm (1.6 ft) long. Recorded weights include about 620 g (1.4 lb) for one male, and 498 g (1.1 lb) for one female. Most of its plumage is in varying shades of brown, and it is darker on its upper body. Its dark brown breast has pale feather edges, which create a scalloped or scaly appearance. The belly is buff-colored, while the vent is chestnut. It has a small pinkish throat patch, and the bare skin surrounding its dark eye is slate gray. This species is endemic to southeastern Brazil, ranging from southern São Paulo through Paraná and Santa Catarina into Rio Grande do Sul. It may also have been present in southeastern Paraguay until the late 1800s. It lives in the edges of tropical evergreen forest, as well as the interior and edges of restinga and mangrove stands dominated by Laguncularia racemosa. It occurs at elevations between sea level and 800 m (2,600 ft).
