The family Cracidae, within the order Galliformes, comprises a group of large, mostly arboreal birds commonly known as chachalacas, guans, and curassows. These birds are native primarily to Central and South America and are characterized by strong legs, broad tails, and relatively large bodies adapted for life in forests. They are predominantly frugivorous, feeding on fruits, leaves, and seeds, though they may occasionally consume small animals or insects. Cracids are important seed dispersers in tropical ecosystems and often live in social groups. Many species are threatened by habitat loss and hunting, making conservation efforts critical for their survival.