Photographic Evidence Confirms Red-legged Seriema Population in Argentina's Alto Bello

The highly reclusive Red-legged Seriema, known locally in Argentina as Orco Chuña, has had its final confirmed provincial population documented within the Alto Bello region of Santiago del Estero. For an extended period, researchers attempting to secure photographic evidence faced considerable obstacles, relying primarily on the species' distinctive, harsh vocalizations to confirm its presence.

This significant documentation milestone was achieved through the collaborative efforts of members from the Kakuy Bird Observers Club (COA Kakuy) and the indigenous Ayllu Cacán community. The resulting photographic record marks the first documented instance submitted to eBird.org for this area. This success underscores the critical role of community-driven conservation, as the Diaguita community actively engages in the stewardship and protection of the Seriema and its specific ecological niche within Alto Bello, which is currently undergoing a deliberate transformation into a designated natural and cultural sanctuary.

The Red-legged Seriema, Cariama cristata, is a large terrestrial bird, typically measuring between 75 and 90 cm in length and weighing between 1.5 and 2.2 kg. It is distinguished by its bright red legs and bill, and a prominent, loose crest. Scientifically, the species holds profound importance as it is recognized as the closest extant relative to the long-extinct apex avian predators known as 'Terror Birds' (Phorusrhacids), which dominated parts of South America during the Cenozoic era.

The species prefers semi-open and relatively dry environments such as thorny scrub, savannas, and hilly grasslands, often at elevations up to 2,100 meters. As a capable predator, its diet consists mainly of arthropods, lizards, snakes, and small rodents, which it dispatches using its powerful feet or beak. Observations indicate the Red-legged Seriema is a wary and territorial diurnal species, typically observed singly or in small family groups. When threatened, it is far more likely to flee on foot, capable of reaching speeds up to 25 kilometers per hour before resorting to flight.

The documentation in Alto Bello not only secures the presence of this species in Santiago del Estero but also highlights the critical function of local and indigenous stewardship in preserving avian biodiversity that connects the present to deep evolutionary history.