The Chachalacas, Currassows & Guans (Cracidae) are a family of 50 species that are found in tropical and subtropical Central and South America. One species reaches southernmost Texas and two species occur on the islands of Trinidad and Tobago.

Cracids are large birds, similar in general appearance to turkeys. The guans and curassows live in trees, but the smaller chachalacas are found in more open scrubby habitats. Many species are fairly long tailed, which may be an aide to navigating their largely arboreal existence. They are generally dull-plumaged, but the curassows and some guans have colourful facial ornaments. The birds are very vocal, with the chachalacas taking their name from the sound of their call.