“JOÃO DE BARRO” = “RUFOUS HORNERO” [‘Furnarius rufus’] - is a common species of second-growth scrub, pastures and agricultural land, and the species is often seen near areas of human inhabitation; is a large ovenbird with a square tail and a straight bill. The plumage is overall reddish brown with a dull brown crown and a whitish throat. Both sexes look alike, and juvenile birds are slightly paler below. “RUFOUS HORNERO” feed on insects and other arthropods obtained by foraging on the ground while walking. Predators of the “RUFOUS HORNERO” include the HARPY EAGLE, JAGUARS, PUMAS, and a number of species of SNAKES. However, by building the nests and keeping the eggs covered it greatly increases the birds mortality rate; laying eggs between September and December and raising nestlings between October and January. The species is monogamous and will maintain the pair bond for many years, even for life. The nest of the species is typical for the genus, a large thick clay "oven" placed on a tree, or more recently on man made structures such as fenceposts, telephone poles or buildings. Nests can be constructed in as little as 15 days. Between 2-4 eggs are laid and incubated for 14–18 days. Chicks [young birds] remain in the parental territory for around 6 months after fledging. Both parents undertake incubation and feeding responsibilities. Has been adopted as the ‘national bird’ of ARGENTINA. You can see it in the PANTANAL...