The caracara makes a comeback in Curaçao
The northern crested caracara (Caracara plancus) is an incredibly adaptable bird of prey in the falcon family. Unlike other birds of prey, they aren’t aerial hunters, preferring to hunt on foot, scavenge, and even eat fruit! With distinctive black caps; light chests, wingtips, and tail ends; golden legs; and orange facial skin, they can sometimes be mistaken in flight for hawks or vultures. The species breeds in the Dutch Caribbean, with populations in Curaçao rebounding over the last 30 years after almost disappearing. Prime places to spot them include between Sami Liber and Bullenbaai; near Vaersenbaai beach; and perched on large columnar cacti.