Gray Hawk
NameGray Hawk
Common NameGray Hawk
Scientific NameButeo plagiatus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)83
Length (cm)43.5
Weight (g)450
Plumage DetailsAdults have a uniform gray head and upperparts, with fine white and gray barring across the breast and belly. The tail is black with two or three distinct white bands. The cere and legs are bright yellow.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of high-pitched, whistled 'whee-whee-whee' calls, often described as a 'peeeer' or 'kree-e-e-e'.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the southwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas), throughout Mexico, and south through Central America to Costa Rica.
Identifying Featuresuniform gray upperparts and head (adults), fine gray and white barring on underparts (adults), bright yellow cere and legs, black tail with prominent white bands
Description
The Gray Hawk is a medium-sized raptor characterized by its sleek gray plumage and finely barred underparts. It is often observed perching prominently in trees, scanning for prey in its semi-open woodland habitats.
