Black-and-white Hawk-Eagle With Awesome Facial Expressions

Rare but spectacular eagle of lowland tropical forest.

The black-and-white hawk-eagle (Spizastur melanoleucus) is a bird of prey species in the eagle and hawk family (Accipitridae). It is found throughout a large part of tropical America, from southern Mexico to northern Argentina.

They are mostly white with a black back and a barred tail. It has a black patch on the crown, pale yellow eyes, and bright orange ceres. The legs are feathered.

Images: Fundación Águilas de los Andes

Regarding its habitat, it prefers forests – specifically the edges, close to open areas. They spend a great deal of time overflying them at altitudes of 1,000 to 1,700 meters, searching for prey. When they spot one with their sharp eyes, they dive down to catch it. Its favorite preys are medium-sized birds, like quails, partridges, or toucans, as well as mammals smaller than foxes. They also feed on amphibians and reptiles.

Black-and-white Hawk-Eagle With Awesome Facial Expressions

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