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==Identification== | ==Identification== | ||
Length 50-58cm (20-23"), wingspan 122-127cm (48-50") | Length 50-58cm (20-23"), wingspan 122-127cm (48-50") | ||
| − | As the name implies, this is a very dark hawk; dark brown to almost black, with a yellow bill tipped in black, and some white spotting on the base of the primary flight feathers, and at the tip of the tail. | + | As the name implies, this is a very dark hawk; dark brown to almost black, with a yellow bill tipped in black, and some white spotting on the base of the primary flight feathers, and at the tip of the tail. In its limitied US range, it is most easily identified by chunky shape and broad white band crossing middle of tail. Further south compare the [[Great Black Hawk]] and the rare [[Solitary Eagle]]. |
==Distribution== | ==Distribution== | ||
Revision as of 11:12, 12 January 2008
- Buteogallus anthracinus
Identification
Length 50-58cm (20-23"), wingspan 122-127cm (48-50") As the name implies, this is a very dark hawk; dark brown to almost black, with a yellow bill tipped in black, and some white spotting on the base of the primary flight feathers, and at the tip of the tail. In its limitied US range, it is most easily identified by chunky shape and broad white band crossing middle of tail. Further south compare the Great Black Hawk and the rare Solitary Eagle.
Distribution
Found in coastal regions of northern and north-western South America, incl. Trinidad & Tobago, north through Central America and Mexico, to southernmost USA (Arizona and Texas). Generally resident, but some local movements, and only a summer visitor to south-eastern Arizona. Also seen along border section of Rio Grande River, notably in Big Bend NP, in winter. Very rare visitor to lower Rio Grande Valley, Texas. A resident population also occurs on Cuba.
Taxonomy
Recent evidence strongly suggests that the population on Cuba should be considered a separate species, the Cuban Black Hawk (Buteogallus gundlachii). On the contrary, recent evidence strongly suggests that the Mangrove Black Hawk should be considered a subspecies of the Common Black Hawk.
Habitat
Wide range of wooded habitats, especially in coastal areas. In the northernmost parts of its range, nests most commonly in cottonwood trees in riparian areas.
Behaviour
Gentle and lethargic except while nesting, when it often drops out of the skies from great height.
Conservation Status
Overall common and widespread. In its limited US range it is rare and local, with an estimated 250 breeding pairs remaining. Will abandon nest if disturbed too much.
