Bermuteo avivorus
The Bermuda Hawk, *Bermuteo avivorus*, is a magnificent medium-sized raptor endemic to the remote archipelago of Bermuda, often regarded as the avian emblem of the islands. Adults typically measure 45-55 cm (18-22 inches) in length with a wingspan of 105-120 cm (41-47 inches), weighing between 750-1200 grams. Their plumage is predominantly rich dark brown on the back and wings, contrasting with a creamy underbelly streaked heavily with reddish-brown, particularly across the breast and flanks....
The Bermuda Hawk primarily inhabits dense coastal and inland forests, particularly those dominated by Bermuda Cedar and Palmetto, ranging from sea level to the highest points of the islands. It also ventures into more open woodland patches and well-vegetated suburban areas where prey is abundant.
The Bermuda Hawk's diet consists mainly of small passerine birds, such as sparrows and finches, as well as lizards (especially Anolis lizards), and large insects. It primarily hunts by ambush from a perch or by short, swift pursuits through dense vegetation.
The Bermuda Hawk is a diurnal hunter, typically active from dawn until dusk, often seen perched conspicuously on high vantage points scanning for prey before roosting communally or individually in dense tree canopies overnight. Its foraging strategy is a combination of perch-and-pounce, where it ...
The Bermuda Hawk (*Bermuteo avivorus*) is strictly endemic to the isolated North Atlantic archipelago of Bermuda, representing its entire global breeding and wintering range. Historically, its distribution spanned across all major islands within the territory, but population declines in the 18th ...
Near Threatened
- The Bermuda Hawk was once considered critically endangered, with population estimates dropping to fewer than 10 breeding pairs in the early 20th century due to habitat loss and persecution. - Its scientific name, *Bermuteo avivorus*, literally translates to "Bermuda Hawk, bird-eater," a nod to ...