It is a very silent animal, uttering no cry even when wounded, and only rarely during the breeding season.
Of birds, two species of the genus Pteroptochos (megapodius and albicollis of Kittlitz) are perhaps the most conspicuous.

The former, called by the Chilenos "el Turco," is as large as a fieldfare, to which bird it has some alliance; but its legs are much longer, tail shorter, and beak stronger: its colour is a reddish brown.

The Turco is not uncommon.

It lives on the ground, sheltered among the thickets which are scattered over the dry and sterile hills.

With its tail erect, and stilt-like legs, it may be seen every now and then popping from one bush to another with uncommon quickness.