Hook-billed Kite
NameHook-billed Kite
Common NameHook-billed Kite
Scientific NameChondrohierax uncinatus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)102.5
Length (cm)44.5
Weight (g)450
Plumage DetailsAdults typically have a blue-gray head, yellow eyes, and a blue-gray cere. The underparts are often heavily barred with rufous and white, while the back and wings are slate-gray. The tail is dark with broad white bands. Plumage can vary significantly between individuals and subspecies.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of high-pitched, whistled 'whee-whee-whee' notes or a more drawn-out 'kweee-ah' sound.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound from southern Mexico through Central America and across much of South America, extending south to northern Argentina and Paraguay.
Identifying FeaturesStrongly hooked bill, Variable plumage (often barred underparts), Yellow eyes, Blue-gray cere, Long tail with white bands
Description
The Hook-billed Kite is a medium-sized raptor characterized by its distinctive, strongly hooked bill, which it uses to extract snails from their shells. This species exhibits highly variable plumage, often featuring a slate-gray head and barred underparts, and is typically found in tropical and subtropical forests.
