Black-faced Hawk

Overview

The black-faced hawk (Leucopternis melanops) is a medium-sized raptor in the family Accipitridae, classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. This low-density species is primarily found in the Amazon Basin, with a range that extends from lowland Peru and northeastern Ecuador north of the Amazon River to Venezuela, southern Colombia, Brazil, and the Guyanas.

Identification

• Plumage: Features black and white plumage with a white underbelly, a large white head streaked with black, and a characteristic black 'mask'.
• Markings: The back is dark down to the tail with a single white band near the base, distinguishing it from the juvenile white-browed hawk which has two bands.
• Bill and Cere: Possesses a black-tipped bill and a dark orange cere located below the black mask.
• Vocalisation: Produces a piercing, acute and descending whistle described as 'KEEuuu', 'KEEler' or 'KEEyer'.

Habitat

The species prefers tall lowland forest within the Amazon, but may also reside amongst forest edges, along rivers, and in mangroves. It is widespread north of the Amazon River, although its occurrence south of the river remains controversial.

Diet

Very little specific information is recorded, but it is assumed that the main diet consists of snakes and other reptiles, similar to other Leucopternis species.

Did you know?

Despite the general belief that the black-faced hawk is restricted to the Amazon Basin north of the Amazon River, there are recorded sightings in the Brazilian states of Pará and Acre, and southeastern Peru, though these remain controversial.