The red-legged seriema is named for the long red legs which they use as their primary method to move around the forest. They rarely fly.

This species is most notable for the violent method of killing its prey. They will capture birds, rodents or reptiles including venomous snakes and then bash it against rocks to kill it and make it easier to eat.

In some areas they are kept among flocks of chickens to protect them against snakes.

They are threatened through capture for food and pets.

Read on to learn more about these brave birds.

Appearance

What does the red-legged seriema look like?

The red-legged seriema stands atop a pair of long, red legs.

Across the rest of the body they have finely barred plumage which is colored brown. Around the neck, breast and underside these are rather loose. At the base of the bill is a crest of feathers which are permanently raised. On the upperside the feathers are colored whitish turning to grey on the head and neck.

Their beak is broad and hooked. It is colored red. They are one of the few birds which have a set of eyelashes. The eye is colored yellow and surrounded by a patch of blue skin.

An average red-legged seriema will measure 75 to 90cm (29.5 to 35.5in) long and weigh 1.5kg (3.25lbs). The male and female are similar in appearance and size.

They are the second largest ground dwelling birds in the Neotropics after the rhea.

Diet

What does the red-legged seriema eat?

The red-legged seriema is a carnivore. They will feed on a range of animal prey including birds, reptiles such as lizards and snakes and small mammals such as rodents.

Due to their ability to kill snakes they may be kept in some areas of their range among flocks of chickens to help protect them.

They have shown the ability to consume venomous prey including snakes.

Before consuming prey it is caught and banged against rocks which will help to kill it and break its bones making it easier to eat.

Credit: Public Domain