Pauxi

Pauxi is a small genus of birds in the family Cracidae, commonly known as helmeted curassows. Native to tropical forests of northern South America, species within the genus occupy a range that includes lowland and foothill forests, often in dense undergrowth and along forest edges. They are ground-dwelling birds with strong bills and a distinctive casque or crest on the head in some individuals, and they typically display dark plumage with limited seasonal variation.

The genus Pauxi contains three extant species: Pauxi pauxi, Pauxi unicornis, and Pauxi koepckeae. These species occur in scattered montane and lowland forest regions across northern South America, including Colombia, Venezuela, Peru, and adjacent areas, often in areas with substantial forest cover. They are cryptic and elusive, making field observations challenging.

Ecologically, Pauxi species are mostly frugivorous and omnivorous, foraging on fruit, seeds, leaves, and invertebrates on the forest floor and in the understory. They tend to form small family groups or pairs and are generally shy, relying on dense cover for protection. Nesting typically occurs in trees or elevated positions, with relatively small clutch sizes.

Conservation status varies among species, but habitat loss, deforestation, and hunting pressure threaten populations within the genus. The Santa Marta region in Colombia, home to one of the Pauxi species, has experienced significant habitat degradation, contributing to heightened concern for local populations. Protected areas and targeted conservation efforts assist in monitoring and safeguarding remaining individuals, but extensive habitat connectivity remains crucial for their persistence.