Striated Caracara
Phalcoboenus australis
Here at Banham Zoo
Look up near the entrance of Banham Zoo, and you might spot our resident striated caracaras perched high, keeping a close watch on their surroundings.
Native to Argentina, Chile, the Falkland Islands, and parts of southern South America, these birds of prey are known for their intelligence and curiosity. They're also very active and love taking part in daily enrichment activities created by our keepers.
Where Do I Live?
Argentina, Chile, and the Falkland Islands
These birds of prey are found on coasts in the extreme south of Argentina and Chile, as well as the Falkland Islands.
What Do I Eat?
They prey on a variety of seabirds, and often scavenge dead birds including penguins, albatrosses and sea ducks. They also feed on insects and worms.
How Do I Breed?
Striated caracaras build nests of twigs and grass on rocky ledges, which are often lined with wool when available. They lay two eggs in a clutch and are believed to breed cooperatively, assisting other caracaras to defend their nests when necessary.
Together, we protect wildlife
Conservation status
Near Threatened (NT)
Close to qualifying for Vulnerable.
These birds were heavily persecuted in the past, as they can prey on weak or injured lambs, and there was a bounty paid for their capture. Today they are protected but there are believed to be only around 1,500 to 4,000 of the birds in the wild.
Some Helpful Links
Where is the
Striated Caracara
located?
Our
Striated Caracara
is located in our
Entrance Zone
, map reference
1
.
What’s the best time to see the animals?
The best time to see our animals is often during feeding times or in the cooler parts of the day when they are most active. Check our daily timetable for keeper talks and feeding sessions for an up-close look! Our habitat signage also includes helpful hints and tips to make the most of your visit.
How do you ensure the animals' welfare?
Animal welfare is our top priority. We provide species-specific habitats, enrichment activities, and expert veterinary care to ensure all our animals thrive.
