Ayres's Hawk-Eagle
NameAyres's Hawk-Eagle
Common NameAyres's Hawk-Eagle
Scientific NameHieraaetus ayresii
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)115
Length (cm)53
Weight (g)800
Plumage DetailsAdults have dark grey-brown to blackish upperparts, often with a white patch on the rump. The underparts are white, heavily spotted and barred with dark brown or black, particularly on the breast and flanks. The head is dark with striking bright yellow eyes.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is typically a high-pitched, ringing 'klee-klee-klee' or 'kwee-kwee-kwee', often uttered while soaring or in flight.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound patchily across sub-Saharan Africa, from West Africa eastward to Kenya and Tanzania, and southward through Angola, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and northeastern South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size for an eagle, Dark upperparts contrasting with heavily spotted white underparts, Bright yellow eyes, Powerful build and strong talons, Often seen soaring high above woodlands
Description
The Ayres's Hawk-Eagle is a relatively small, powerful raptor found in sub-Saharan Africa. It is characterized by its dark upperparts and heavily spotted white underparts, making it distinctive among African eagles. This agile hunter primarily preys on birds, often snatching them from the canopy or in flight.
