Hoatzin

The hoatzin doesn’t get the attention it deserves, probably because it’s too common in some places and too remote in others.

Structure is the best clue at distance: in flight the hoatzin has a particular proportion you start to recognize before any field mark resolves.

Taxonomy here follows a standard order-level frame (Opisthocomiformes / Opisthocomidae); common synonymies are noted when I’ve seen them used in the field.

I’ve had good looks during fall migration on ridges and less consistent luck at coastal stopovers.

Anyway: not a rare bird, not a hard bird, but one I want on every trip.