Unmistaksus

Unmistaksus is a genus of small to medium-sized birds of prey found in the Americas. The name "Unmistaksus" is derived from the Latin words "un-" meaning "not" and "mistaksus" meaning "mistaken," reflecting the difficulty in distinguishing between the species within the genus. The genus includes two species: the Crested Caracara (Caracara cheriway) and the Yellow-headed Caracara (Caracara cheriway).

The Crested Caracara is a medium-sized caracara with a distinctive crest of feathers on its head. It is found in the southern United States, Mexico, and Central America. The Yellow-headed Caracara is slightly smaller and has a yellow head and breast, with a black cap and a white throat. It is found in the southern United States, Mexico, and Central America.

Both species are diurnal and feed on small mammals, reptiles, and insects. They are known for their acrobatic flight and their ability to perch on branches. Unmistaksus species are generally solitary birds, except during the breeding season.

The taxonomy of the genus Unmistaksus has been a subject of debate among ornithologists. Some researchers have proposed that the two species should be placed in separate genera, while others have argued that they should be placed in the same genus. Despite this debate, the genus Unmistaksus remains a useful tool for understanding the evolution and diversity of caracaras.