Seriemas are primarily ground-dwelling birds that forage by walking among tall grasses, shrubs, trails, and dirt roads. Their diet includes fruits, seeds, insects, lizards, small snakes, amphibians, and even small mammals, which they kill by striking them against the ground. They tend to avoid flying and, when disturbed, prefer to flee on foot before taking off. These birds are territorial and use loud duets, particularly during the breeding season, to communicate with neighbours and establish territory boundaries. Vocalisations often occur from elevated perches like termite mounds or tree branches.

They exhibit unique behaviours like dust bathing and can be seen jumping and vocalizing in what appears to be courtship displays. Adults are generally cautious around the nest, approaching and leaving quietly. They show strong parental cooperation in feeding and caring for their young.

The species inhabits open areas with scattered trees, such as the Brazilian caatinga and cerrado, as well as pastures with patches of shrubs and trees. They are also found near tree-lined fences and live hedges.

We observed nests in Arcos, Minas Gerais (40 nests) and Poconé, Mato Grosso (1 nest).

Breeding activity has been observed from September to November.

Nests are built by both adults (though in some regions, only the female was seen building) on tree forks or large branches, between 3 to 8 meters above ground. The structure is a large platform made of twigs and lined with leaves, bark, seeds, inflorescences, soil, and even cattle manure. Nests can weigh between 4 to 10 kg and are often reused or rebuilt near previous sites.

In Paraíba, we recorded a nest built solely by the female at 4 meters high, measuring 52 x 40 cm and lined with clay, dry leaves, and small twigs.

For more information, refer to the publication: Studer, A., Batista L., Gomes B.M.C., et Marini M. A. 2021, or contact the author at anita.birdaves@gmail.com