Microspizias superciliosus
The Tiny Hawk (Microspizias superciliosus) is an exquisite and notoriously secretive Neotropical raptor, representing the smallest member of the Accipitridae family in its range. Adults measure a mere 16-18 cm (6.3-7.1 in) in length with a wingspan of 32-36 cm (12.6-14.2 in), exhibiting slate-gray upperparts, pristine white underparts often tinged with rufous on the flanks and thighs, and a finely barred black-and-white tail. Its most distinctive field mark is a prominent white supercilium th...
Found in dense, primary tropical and subtropical rainforests, preferring the mid-canopy and understory layers. Primarily occurs from sea level up to 1,500 meters (5,000 ft) in elevation.
Primarily preys on small passerine birds (e.g., tanagers, flycatchers) caught in flight or from foliage. Also consumes large insects (cicadas, grasshoppers) and small lizards.
The Tiny Hawk is a diurnal raptor with a highly secretive and cryptic nature, often perching motionless for long periods on low branches within dense foliage. It employs a classic 'still-hunt' or ambush foraging strategy, darting out with incredible agility to snatch prey, sometimes pursuing it t...
The Tiny Hawk exhibits a discontinuous distribution across Central and South America, primarily inhabiting dense tropical and subtropical rainforests. Core breeding populations are found throughout the Amazon Basin, spanning parts of Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, and Bolivia, as well as the Gu...
Near Threatened
- The Tiny Hawk is the smallest diurnal raptor found in the Neotropics, making its hunting prowess all the more impressive. - Its scientific name, *Microspizias superciliosus*, directly refers to its diminutive size ('Microspizias' meaning 'small hawk') and its distinctive white eyebrow ('superci...