Black Hawk-Eagle
NameBlack Hawk-Eagle
Common NameBlack Hawk-Eagle
Scientific NameSpizaetus tyrannus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)128.5
Length (cm)64.5
Weight (g)1100
Plumage DetailsAdults are almost entirely black or very dark brown, with a distinctive white-tipped crest on the head. They have bright yellow eyes, a yellow cere, and yellow feet. The legs are heavily barred with black and white, and the tail is black with several broad pale bands.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a loud, piercing series of whistles or screams, often described as 'whee-whee-whee' or 'kwee-kwee-kwee', typically given in flight or from a high perch.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in tropical and subtropical forests from southern Mexico through Central America and into South America, extending south to northern Argentina.
Identifying Featuresprominent white-tipped crest, dark overall plumage, bright yellow eyes, heavily barred black and white legs, banded tail
Description
The Black Hawk-Eagle is a powerful, medium-sized raptor characterized by its dark plumage and prominent white-tipped crest. It is an agile hunter, typically found soaring above or perched within the canopy of tropical forests.
