Hoatzin Opisthocomidae
The Hoatzin is such a bizarre bird, it can be said that they appear to look almost prehistoric. Since it's discovery in 1776, there has been much controversy concerning where to systematically place this species. For now, it is the only species to be placed in it's own order, the Opisthocomiformes.

Opisthocomus

This is the sole member of the genus and family.

The Hoatzin Opisthocomus hoazin is restricted to South America in lowland areas east of the Andes. They are somewhat common in undisturbed lowland streams, rivers, and lakes. They are weak fliers, which essentially makes them sedentary. Unfortunately, this also means that if their habitat is altered too much, such as draining for agricultural use, then the local populations cannot survive. This bird was one of three I observed at the incredible Amazonia Lodge, Madre de Dios, Peru.



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