adult; no sexual dimorphism (Zoo; 2011-11-20)


southern Screamer
Chauna torquata

Native Range: South America

Notes: a large goose-like bird that lives and nests on grassy plains and marshes; feeds mostly on succulent water plants; has sharp bony spurs on its wings that it uses to defed against predators and other intruders into its territory; highly aggressive; walks on its sturdy legs and long non-webbed toes; purported to have the loudest voice (a scream) of any avian species.


large; gray-bodied; red patch on face; crest (Zoo; 2011-11-20)

note the sharp bony spurs onthe leading edge of wings (Zoo; 2011-11-20)

pinkish legs; chicken-like bill; black collar (Zoo; 2011-11-20)

juvenile; more mottled-looking and less crested (Zoo; 2008-11-30)

adult posing for a portrait (Zoo; 2011-11-20)

frontal view; generally an intimidating bird (Zoo; 2011-11-29)

sitting (Zoo; 2011-11-29)

sunning (Zoo; 2011-11-29)

standing on one leg (Zoo; 2008-10-30)

stil standing on one leg (Zoo; 2008-10-30)

posing for a body portrait (Zoo; 2012-10-23)

posing for a head portrait(Zoo; 2012-10-23)