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What is a White Hawk?

Angie Bates
Angie Bates

The white hawk is a neotropical bird of prey which lives almost exclusively in Central and South America, ranging from southern Mexico to Brazil. There are four subspecies of the white hawk. These subspecies are distinguished by the birds' locations and by small differences in their coloring. The scientific name for the white hawk superspecies is leucopternis albicollis.

The four subspecies of white hawk are leucopternis albicollis ghiesbreghti, found primarily in Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala; leucopternis albicollis williaminae, found largely in Venezuela and Columbia; leucopternis albicollis costaricensis, found mostly in Columbia, Honduras, and Panama; and leucopternis albicollis albicollis, found in parts of Columbia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Venezuela, Peru, Trinidad, and Bolivia. White Hawks are considered common everywhere they are found except for El Salvador, where they are considered endangered.

The white hawk lives exclusively in Central and South America, ranging from southern Mexico to Brazil.
The white hawk lives exclusively in Central and South America, ranging from southern Mexico to Brazil.

White hawks measure between 17-22 inches (43-56 cm). They have white bodies and black markings on their broad wings. Depending on the subspecies, their wings and tails can be almost completely black or just have small black markings near the bottom of the primary feathers. The southern species tend to have a larger amount of black coloring than the northern. All species have a whistling call.

A forest bird, the white hawk lives in hilly lowlands or foothills, preferring wet areas near bodies of water or jungles. It spends much of its time perched at the edges of tree lines, often appearing lethargic. When airborne, it usually flies over forests and will avoid open areas. This hawk is presumed to be non-migratory.

White hawks mainly hunt small reptiles, such as snakes and lizards, but they will eat almost any small animal, consuming mammals, amphibians, birds, and insects. Unlike many birds of prey, white hawks do not catch their prey in flight. Instead, they wait on branches, then glide quickly to the ground to capture their meals. White hawks are also known to follow capuchin monkeys because the monkeys will flush out snakes with their passing.

Generally about 65 feet (20 m) above the forest floor, white hawk nests are made of sticks and leaves. Females lay only one egg, which hatches after 34-36 days. Only the female incubates the egg, but once hatched, both parents feed the young. The young can fly any time between 65 to 88 days after hatching. Studies suggest that the young hawk may be dependent on the parents for at least a year, but there is limited research into this behavior.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a White Hawk?

A White Hawk, scientifically known as Pseudastur albicollis, is a bird of prey found in the tropical New World, from southern Mexico through Central and South America to Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil. It is notable for its strikingly white plumage with black flight feathers, which contrasts with the lush greenery of its rainforest habitat.

What does the White Hawk eat?

The White Hawk primarily feeds on reptiles, such as snakes and lizards, but it also preys on small mammals and insects. Its hunting strategy involves soaring high and then diving to catch prey by surprise. This raptor's keen eyesight and agile flight make it an adept hunter in the dense forest canopy.

How does the White Hawk's plumage benefit it?

The White Hawk's predominantly white plumage is thought to have a camouflage advantage in the dappled light of its rainforest habitat. The bright plumage can reflect sunlight, helping the hawk blend in with the light spots created by the sun filtering through the forest canopy, thus aiding in its stealth approach to prey.

Is the White Hawk an endangered species?

As of the current data, the White Hawk is not considered endangered and is classified as "Least Concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, it faces threats from habitat destruction due to deforestation and land conversion for agriculture, which could impact its population in the future.

How does the White Hawk reproduce?

White Hawks are monogamous and often mate for life. They build large stick nests in tall trees and typically lay one to two eggs per breeding season. Both parents share responsibilities for incubation and feeding the chicks. The young hawks fledge after about six to seven weeks but may remain with the parents for extended periods.

Where can one observe White Hawks in their natural habitat?

White Hawks can be observed in their natural habitat throughout the tropical forests of Central and South America. They are more commonly seen in protected areas and national parks where their habitat is preserved. Birdwatchers often spot them soaring above the canopy or perched conspicuously on high branches in regions like the Amazon Rainforest and the forests of Costa Rica.

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    • The white hawk lives exclusively in Central and South America, ranging from southern Mexico to Brazil.
      By: photorebelle
      The white hawk lives exclusively in Central and South America, ranging from southern Mexico to Brazil.