Hoatzin

Opisthocomus hoazin

The hoatzin is a herbivorous bird of South American swamp forests. Diurnal social groups move slowly through branches along water.

Key facts

Hoatzin (Opisthocomus hoazin) is a herbivore animal classified as Bird · Opisthocomiformes · Opisthocomidae.
Primary habitats are freshwater · forest, with a range across Neotropical.
Activity is diurnal, sociality is social, and conservation status is LC (Least Concern).
The hoatzin is a herbivorous bird of South American swamp forests.
It uses riverine forest, swamp forest, and wetland shrubs in the Amazon and Orinoco basins.
Typical lifespan: 8-25 years

Habitat range map

Native rangeOccasional / Transient

Map: Ecoregions 2017 © RESOLVE (CC BY 4.0) · Natural Earth (PD)

It uses riverine forest, swamp forest, and wetland shrubs in the Amazon and Orinoco basins. Overhanging branches provide rest and escape routes.

Wingspan is about 65-70 cm and weight about 700-900 g. A spiky crest, blue facial skin, red eyes, and long tail give it a singular look.

Active by day, groups browse leaves in waterside vegetation. Flight is weak, and birds usually retreat into dense cover near water when disturbed.

It is herbivorous, feeding mainly on leaves and shoots. Foregut fermentation means long resting periods are needed for digestion.

Nests are placed on branches over water, often within social groups. Chicks can use wing claws to clamber through vegetation.

Its status is listed as Least Concern. It is tightly linked to wet forest edges and is notable for its unusual leaf-digesting system.