Bat Hawk
NameBat Hawk
Common NameBat Hawk
Scientific NameMacheiramphus alcinus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)102.5
Length (cm)51
Weight (g)525
Plumage DetailsAdults are mostly dark sooty brown to black, often with a white patch on the throat and sometimes on the lower belly. Juveniles are similar but may have some white mottling on the head and underparts. The eyes are notably large and bright yellow.
Vocalization / CallA loud, high-pitched 'kweek-kweek-kweek' or 'ki-ki-ki-ki' often given in flight, especially during display or when disturbed.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, Madagascar, and parts of Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Papua New Guinea. It prefers forest edges, open woodlands, and often areas near human habitation where bats are abundant.
Identifying FeaturesDark sooty plumage, Large, prominent yellow eyes, Wide gape for aerial feeding, Crepuscular hunting behavior, Rapid, agile flight
Description
The Bat Hawk is a medium-sized, slender raptor characterized by its dark plumage and striking large yellow eyes. It is primarily crepuscular, hunting bats and swifts in flight at dusk and dawn with remarkable agility.
