Black Baza
NameBlack Baza
Common NameBlack Baza
Scientific NameAviceda leuphotes
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)68
Length (cm)32
Weight (g)190
Plumage DetailsGlossy black upperparts, head, and prominent pointed crest. White throat and upper breast, followed by a broad black band across the lower breast. The belly and flanks are rufous with broad white and black barring. White patches are visible on the primaries, especially in flight.
Vocalization / CallA distinctive, high-pitched, whistling call, often described as 'twee-whee' or 'twee-twee-twee', typically repeated.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across Southeast Asia, including parts of India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia (Sumatra, Borneo), and the Philippines. Some populations are migratory.
Identifying FeaturesProminent pointed crest, Striking black, white, and rufous barred plumage, Broad black band across lower breast, Small size for a raptor
Description
The Black Baza is a small, distinctive raptor characterized by its prominent crest and striking black, white, and rufous plumage. It is often observed in small flocks, particularly during migration, and primarily preys on large insects.
