ACAUÃ (AS KNOWN IN BRAZIL)

Herpetotheres cachinnans

Present throughout Brazil, the laughing falcon is a bird that carries a strong mystery in its appearances. It is known by many names, such as acauã, macauá, acanã, and cuã, in Brazil. In some regions, its singing is interpreted as a bad omen and associated with impending death, while in others, it is considered a sign of luck. Its name derives from its repetitive song. In Amazonian folklore, it is said that the cries of the laughing falcon foreshadow the arrival of outsiders. In the Espinhaço region of Minas Gerais, it foretells the death of an acquaintance. In the northeast, it is believed that if this bird is perched on a dry branch, it's a sign that drought is coming, while if it's on a leafy tree, rain is on its way.

The Laughing Falcon measures between 17 and 22 inches in length and weighs between 19 and 23 ounces. It has a distinctive black mask on its face and a crest on its crown. Its wings and tail are dark brown with light edges, and its chest, belly, and undertail coverts are yellowish white. The curved beak is black, with a small yellow cere. It feeds on lizards, bats, snakes, and cattle parasites. The laughing falcon can be found throughout the Brazilian territory.