- Spizaetus tyrannus
Identification
In flight, the impression is dominated by the strong barring on wings and tail. The flight feathers near the body are shorter than those further out on the wing, making the jizz somethat butterfly-like (sometimes even more strongly than the photo included here.
Distribution
From Mexico through Central America to Trinidad, Brazil and Argentina. Avoids larger mountains and in South America mostly east of the Andes.
Taxonomy
Two subspecies are recognized, serus and tyrannus.
Habitat
Mostly lowland forests.
Behaviour
Mostly seen when soaring, often high above the canopy; sometimes gives its characteristic call when soaring. Hunts from perches, from which it catches mammals and birds.
