Roadside hawk

The roadside hawk is a small yet formidable bird of prey that can be observed across the Americas. Known for its vocal nature, this raptor is quite prevalent within its range. It belongs to the genus Rupornis, though it was previously classified under Buteo.

In terms of size, the roadside hawk measures between 31 and 41 cm in length and weighs approximately 250 to 300 grams. Males are generally slightly smaller than females. This bird is characterized by its various subspecies, each exhibiting unique plumage. Its call is a distinctive high-pitched squeak, and it features striking whitish or yellow eyes along with a comparatively large beak.

The roadside hawk's range extends from Mexico through Central America to South America, east of the Andes. It is a highly adaptable bird that thrives in diverse environments and is often spotted in urban areas. When nesting, it exhibits considerable aggression in defending its territory.

In terms of diet, the roadside hawk is not particularly selective. It feeds on insects, small mammals, and occasionally small birds. Interestingly, in open cerrado habitats, mixed-species feeding flocks do not perceive it as a significant threat, likely because it does not pose a considerable risk to them.