The Order Tinamiformes consists of the tinamous, a group of ground-dwelling birds native to Central and South America. They are medium-sized, chicken-like birds with strong legs adapted for running rather than prolonged flight, although they can fly short distances if threatened. Tinamous have a camouflaged plumage that helps them blend into dense forest or grassland habitats. Unlike many other birds, they lay relatively large eggs, and in most species, the male incubates the eggs and cares for the chicks. Ecologically, tinamous play a role in seed dispersal and act as prey for various predators in their habitats.