crested guan
Penelope purpurascens
The crested guan is a Near Threatened species in an ancient group of birds of the family Cracidae, which are related to the Australasian megapodes or mound builders (Megapodiidae). It is found from central Mexico through Central America and in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crested_guan
Taxonomy & Classification
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Aves
Order
Galliformes
Family
Cracidae
Genus
Penelope
crested guan belongs to the family Cracidae, order Galliformes, within the Aves class.
Species Profile
The crested guan is a Near Threatened species in an ancient group of birds of the family Cracidae, which are related to the Australasian megapodes or mound builders (Megapodiidae). It is found from central Mexico through Central America and in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela.
The crested guan faces significant pressure from widespread habitat loss due to deforestation for agriculture, cattle ranching, and urban development throughout its range in Central and South America. Hunting pressure for subsistence and commercial purposes has severely reduced populations in many areas, as these large, conspicuous birds are easily targeted. The species' slow reproductive rate and specific habitat requirements make recovery particularly challenging once populations decline.
Key Facts
Habitat & Distribution
Inhabits humid tropical forests including primary and secondary lowland rainforests, cloud forests, and forest edges from sea level up to 1,500 meters elevation. The species prefers dense canopy areas but also utilizes forest borders and partially cleared areas with remaining tree cover.
Threats
Agricultural expansion and cattle ranching
Habitat loss and fragmentation from deforestation
Hunting pressure for food and trade
Slow reproductive rate limiting population recovery
Urban development and infrastructure projects
Community Sightings
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Sources & Attribution
How to Cite
IUCN: IUCN (2025). The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2025-1. Available at: https://www.iucnredlist.org. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2025-1.RLTS
GBIF: GBIF.org (2025). GBIF Home Page. Available at: https://www.gbif.org
This page: SpeciesRadar (2025). crested guan (Penelope purpurascens). SpeciesRadar: Intelligence for Earth's Biodiversity. Available at: https://speciesradar.org/species/crested-guan