BACK COUNTRY BY BUD ADAMS
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BUD ADAMS
crested caracara (Caracara plancus) glides through the air
at Adams Ranch west of Fort Pierce. Sometimes called the
Mexican buzzard, the caracara has a featherless face similar to
other vultures. It is one of 50 listed species protected in Florida
because of limited population size or growth. The bird’s facial skin
is bright orange-red when at rest but changes to a pumpkin color or
pale yellow when threatened. Caracaras are strong fliers and can reach
speeds of 40 mph. A