Buteogallus anthracinus
The Common Black Hawk, *Buteogallus anthracinus*, is a striking medium-sized raptor, measuring 43-53 cm (17-21 in) in length with a wingspan of 110-129 cm (43-51 in) and weighing between 660-1200 g (1.4-2.6 lbs). Its plumage is almost entirely glossy black, accented by a single broad white band on the tail that is prominently visible in flight and at rest, along with a narrower white tip. Adults boast a bright yellow cere and legs, contrasting sharply with their dark bodies. This species belo...
Primarily found in riparian forests and woodlands along rivers, streams, and arroyos, often near wetlands or mangroves, from sea level up to 2000 meters (6,500 feet) in some areas.
Specializes in aquatic and semi-aquatic prey, including fish, crabs, crayfish, frogs, lizards, snakes, and large insects; primarily forages by wading in shallow water or swooping from a low perch.
Common Black Hawks are diurnal raptors, typically observed perching patiently over water or slowly patrolling riparian corridors. Their foraging strategy is distinctive: they frequently wade into shallow water, sometimes up to their bellies, to snatch aquatic prey, or they hunt from a low perch, ...
The Common Black Hawk's extensive breeding range stretches from the southwestern United States, primarily Arizona and New Mexico, south through Mexico and Central America to northern South America, reaching as far as northwestern Venezuela and Colombia. It also inhabits parts of the Caribbean, no...
Least Concern
- The Common Black Hawk is one of the few raptors known to wade into water, sometimes up to its belly, to actively hunt prey. - Its scientific name, *Buteogallus anthracinus*, combines "Buteo" (a type of hawk) with "gallus" (fowl, possibly referring to its robust build) and "anthracinus" (coal-bl...