Madagascar Harrier-Hawk
NameMadagascar Harrier-Hawk
Common NameMadagascar Harrier-Hawk
Scientific NamePolyboroides radiatus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)100
Length (cm)62.5
Weight (g)792.5
Plumage DetailsAdults have a grey head, neck, and upperparts, with finely barred grey and white underparts. The flight feathers are dark, contrasting with the grey body. The tail is black with a broad white subterminal band. Bare facial skin is reddish-orange, and the legs are yellow.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a quiet bird, but it can produce a high-pitched, drawn-out 'wheee-oo' or 'kweee-oo' call, often heard during display flights or when agitated.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThis species is endemic to Madagascar, found throughout the island in a variety of wooded habitats, including humid evergreen forests, dry deciduous forests, spiny forests, and savannas.
Identifying FeaturesGrey plumage with finely barred underparts, Bare reddish-orange facial skin, Long, flexible yellow legs and feet, Black tail with a broad white subterminal band, Probing foraging behavior
Description
The Madagascar Harrier-Hawk is a medium-sized raptor endemic to Madagascar, characterized by its grey plumage, finely barred underparts, and distinctive bare reddish-orange facial skin. It is known for its unique foraging technique, using its flexible legs to probe into crevices and tree holes for prey.
