The species inhabits dry and humid forest, and is also seen foraging in open habitats including grassland, savanna and even cattle pastures (Holste et al. 2020). It however relies on the presence of mature, undisturbed forests and is not commonly found near human settlements or converted areas (Holste et al. 2020). It feeds on carrion and is able to open up large carcasses; it has been hypothesised that it does not possess a well-developed sense of smell but instead locates food by sight (Houston 1984, Holste et al. 2020). Its breeding biology is not well known, but nests have been found from the forest floor, on low tree stumps or higher up in trees (Holste et al. 2020 and references therein).

The species has a wide distribution, ranging from southern Mexico through Central America and South America to Paraguay and northern Argentina.

Conservation Actions Underway
The species occurs in a number of protected areas across its range. It is listed as Near Threatened at the national levels in French Guiana, Brazil and Ecuador (UICN France et al. 2017, ICMBio 2018, Freile et al. 2019).

Conservation Actions Proposed
Quantify the population size and trend. Research the species' ecology and behaviour and fill knowledge gaps. Investigate the impact of threats, particularly of forest loss and hunting, on the population size. Develop an action plan for the conservation of the species and its habitat. Monitor the population trend.
Protect areas of suitable habitat within the range. Establish reforestation programmes and restore degraded habitat. Raise awareness for the species.