Groove-billed Ani 

About this Species

The Groove-billed Ani (Crotophaga sulcirostris) is known for its distinctive grooved bill and glossy black feathers. These birds are primarily found in open, grassy areas with scattered trees or shrubs, as well as in agricultural fields and along forest edges. They are social animals and often live in large flocks, sometimes numbering in the hundreds. Groove-billed Anis are omnivores, feeding on a variety of insects, fruits, and seeds.

During the breeding season, Groove-billed Anis form monogamous pairs and build large, communal nests made of twigs and lined with leaves. The nests can be up to two meters across and are often used by multiple pairs of birds. Females typically lay 2-4 eggs, and both parents share incubation and feeding duties. Juvenile birds remain with their parents for several months after hatching. Despite their adaptability and relative commonness, the Groove-billed Ani is listed as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).