Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle
NameBlack-chested Buzzard-Eagle
Common NameBlack-chested Buzzard-Eagle
Scientific NameGeranoaetus melanoleucus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)190
Length (cm)70
Weight (g)3250
Plumage DetailsAdults have a slate-grey to black head, neck, and upperparts, with fine grey barring on the flanks and thighs. The underparts are pure white. The cere and feet are bright yellow. Juveniles are browner with streaked underparts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a high-pitched, drawn-out whistle or scream, often described as 'wheee-ooo' or 'kweee-ah'. They can also produce a series of shorter, sharper calls.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, grassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound throughout the Andes mountains and adjacent lowlands of South America, from Venezuela and Colombia south through Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina, extending eastward into parts of Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Black upperparts, White underparts, Grey head and neck, Yellow cere and feet, Broad wings and short tail in flight
Description
This large raptor is characterized by its striking black upperparts and contrasting white underparts. It is a powerful hunter, often seen soaring high above open country and mountainous regions in South America, preying on a variety of small to medium-sized animals.
