These birds were not familiar to me but after reading about them I found that while they look and act a bit like hawks or vultures, they are actually in the falcon family (Falconidae).
Unlike most falcons, caracaras are quite comfortable on the ground and are excellent runners. Their diet is varied and they rely heavily on carrion and reptiles. They also hunt and eat small mammals and insects and even wade into water to catch fish, crabs, and other shellfish.
They are often nicknamed "Mexican Eagles" (though they aren't actually eagles) Their range usually stretches from the southernmost United States down through Central and South America.
They have a very distinctive patch of bare skin around the eyes and beak that is usually orange or red, though it can change color based on their mood.
In flight, look for those bright white patches at the ends of the wings (the "fingers"). They have a very heavy, hooked beak designed for tearing into carrion.
Certainly an interesting bird!
