White-rumped Hawk

The white-rumped hawk, known scientifically as Parabuteo leucorrhous, is a striking bird of prey with a distinctive appearance. Adults are cloaked in an almost entirely black plumage, contrasted by a prominent white rump and undertail coverts. Their tails feature a narrow grayish-brown band at the midpoint, and their thighs are adorned with rufous feathers. The eyes, cere, legs, and feet of these hawks are a vivid yellow, adding to their remarkable visage. Males and females share the same plumage, and the species exhibits sexual dimorphism in size, with males typically smaller than females.

Identification Tips

When identifying the white-rumped hawk, look for its black body, white rump, and the rufous feathering on the thighs. The yellow of the eyes and legs can also be a helpful indicator. In flight, the wingspan ranges from 67 to 79 cm, which can aid in identification from a distance.

Habitat

This species is found in the interior and edges of dense subtropical and tropical forests, as well as the Chaco region in the east. It thrives in a variety of forested environments, from the lush Andean slopes to the more arid landscapes of the Chaco.

Distribution

The white-rumped hawk has a broad distribution across South America, with two distinct ranges. One spans from the Andes of Venezuela and Colombia through Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and into northwestern Argentina. The other extends from southern Brazil through Paraguay to northeastern Argentina.

Behaviour

Generally sedentary, the white-rumped hawk may exhibit some nomadic tendencies. Its precise movements are not well-documented, but it is known to maintain a presence within its established range.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of the white-rumped hawk consist of a high-pitched whistle, with variations that include a "KEEEEiu" sound and a longer, more monotonous whistle.

Breeding

Breeding seasons for the white-rumped hawk appear to vary by location, with activity noted in February and March in Colombia, potentially June to January in Ecuador, and including October in Brazil. Nests are constructed as shallow cups of sticks lined with green leaves, placed high in trees, and typically contain two eggs.

Diet and Feeding

While much of the white-rumped hawk's diet remains a mystery, it has been observed feeding on reptiles, frogs, insects, and rats. Its hunting methods are not well-documented.

Conservation status

The IUCN has classified the white-rumped hawk as Least Concern due to its large range. However, the population size is unknown and suspected to be decreasing. The species is considered relatively uncommon and local, with some tolerance for disturbed forest environments. In the western part of its range, it is deemed common, but in the eastern range, it faces local threats and potential population declines.