Meet The World's Weirdest Screamer Bird

By: NDTVNewsDesk

Image: ebird.org 

The Horned Screamer, found in South American wetlands, is known as the world's weirdest screamer bird due to its unique features. 

Image: ebird.org

It has a long, thin, horn-like structure made of cartilage on its head, which is used for display rather than defense. 

Image: ebird.org

Like many birds, it has hollow bones, but its skull bones are exceptionally thin, making them almost translucent. 

Image: ebird.org

These birds are known for their loud, honking calls, which they use to communicate with each other, especially when disturbed. 

Image: birdsoftheworld.org

Horned Screamers prefer wet grasslands and shallow water areas like swamps and lake edges. 

Image: birdsoftheworld.org

Another odd external feature of this bird is its spurs. Unlike its headgear, these sharp, bony spikes are effective weapons. 

Image: birdsoftheworld.org

These armaments are most impressive in the males, with the long spur often reaching around 6cm in length.

Image: birdsoftheworld.org

It is believed that they are used to defend the bird's nest and territory.

Image: birdsoftheworld.org

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