Gray-lined Hawk
NameGray-lined Hawk
Common NameGray-lined Hawk
Scientific NameButeogallus nitidus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)100
Length (cm)46
Weight (g)610
Plumage DetailsAdults have a uniform gray head, back, and upper breast. The underparts are finely barred with white and dark gray. The tail is black with a single prominent white band and a narrow white tip. The cere and legs are bright yellow.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a high-pitched, whistled 'wheee-ooo' or 'pweee-ooo', often repeated several times. It can also produce a series of clear, ringing whistles.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound from the southwestern United States (southern Arizona, southern Texas) through Mexico and Central America, south into northern South America, including Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and northern Argentina.
Identifying FeaturesUniform gray body (adults), Finely barred white and gray underparts (adults), Black tail with a single broad white band, Bright yellow cere and legs, Medium size with broad wings
Description
The Gray-lined Hawk is a medium-sized raptor characterized by its striking gray plumage and finely barred underparts. It is often seen perched conspicuously on branches in open woodlands, patiently scanning for prey before making a swift strike.
