Savanna Hawk
NameSavanna Hawk
Common NameSavanna Hawk
Scientific NameButeogallus meridionalis
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)100
Length (cm)53
Weight (g)670
Plumage DetailsAdults display rich rufous (reddish-brown) plumage on the head, neck, and underparts, often with fine dark streaking. The back and upperwings are dark brown to grey-brown with rufous feather edgings, giving a scaled appearance. Flight feathers are darker, and the short tail is dark with a single broad white band, often visible in flight. The cere and legs are bright yellow.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a distinctive high-pitched, drawn-out whistle, often described as a 'wheee-oo' or 'keee-ah'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across Central and South America, from southern Mexico through Central America to northern Argentina and Uruguay.
Identifying FeaturesRufous plumage with dark streaking, Long yellow legs, Yellow cere and bill base, Relatively small head for a raptor, Often perches prominently in open areas, Broad white tail band (visible in flight)
Description
The Savanna Hawk is a medium-sized raptor characterized by its slender build, long yellow legs, and rufous plumage. It typically perches conspicuously on posts or trees in open habitats, scanning for prey.
