There are about 50 species in this family. Most live in the forests of Central and South America. One species, the Plain Chachalaca (Ortalis vetula), also lives in southern Texas.

These birds are somewhat turkey-like in shape. They have long, broad tails, small heads, short bills, and strong feet. Most are brown or gray and are not brightly colored. They eat fruit, seeds, leaves, flowers, insects, worms, and other small animals.

They build nests in trees. Their chicks are precocial, which means they can leave the nest soon after hatching and feed themselves. They can also fly when they are only a few days old.