Buteogallus solitarius
The Solitary Eagle, Buteogallus solitarius, is a majestic and highly elusive raptor of the Neotropics, known for its preference for remote montane forests. A large, robust hawk, adults are typically 63-76 cm (25-30 in) in length with an impressive wingspan of 145-180 cm (57-71 in) and weighing 1.7-3.1 kg (3.7-6.8 lbs), with females generally slightly larger. Its plumage is uniformly dark slate gray, often exhibiting a subtle purplish sheen, strikingly contrasted by a single broad white band a...
Inhabits moist montane forests, cloud forests, and pine-oak woodlands, typically at elevations between 600 to 3000 meters, preferring steep terrain and deep ravines.
Feeds predominantly on a variety of reptiles, including large snakes and lizards, as well as small mammals, birds, and occasionally amphibians, primarily caught by perch-hunting or swooping from a soar.
A primarily diurnal raptor, the Solitary Eagle is most often observed soaring high above its forested territories or perched conspicuously on a tall, emergent tree. It is largely solitary, with pairs only coming together during the breeding season. Foraging strategies involve extended periods of ...
The Solitary Eagle's extensive yet fragmented range spans from central Mexico south through Central America and along the Andes Mountains into South America. In Mexico, it is found in the Sierra Madre Oriental and Occidental, extending through Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panam...
Near Threatened
- Despite its large size, the Solitary Eagle is one of the most difficult raptors to observe in its range due to its reclusive nature and preference for dense, remote cloud forests. - It was once considered a relict species, thought to be a remnant of a more ancient lineage of raptors, though thi...