Buteo platypterus

Broad-winged Hawk (Buteo platypterus)

The broad-winged hawk, scientifically known as Buteo platypterus, is a medium-sized hawk native to the Americas. During the summer months, it inhabits eastern North America, ranging westward to British Columbia and Texas, before migrating south to winter in the Neotropics, from Mexico down to southern Brazil. A notable characteristic of this species, shared with most raptors, is that females are slightly larger than males.

Physical Characteristics and Identification

Broad-winged hawks are relatively small members of the Buteo genus, measuring between 32 to 44 cm (13 to 17 inches) in length and weighing 265 to 560 grams (9.3 to 19.8 ounces). Their wings are a distinctive feature: they are relatively short and broad, tapering to a somewhat pointed appearance, a trait unique to this species. The wingspan can extend from 74 to 100 cm (29 to 39 inches). Adult plumage typically consists of a dark brown body with a white belly and chest marked by horizontal barring. The tail is usually dark grey-black with white bands. Juveniles display a slightly different coloration, with more white and longitudinal barring. The species exhibits two primary color morphs: a dark morph with fewer white areas and a light morph that appears paler overall. Distinguishing it from similar species like the red-shouldered hawk, the broad-winged hawk has a shorter tail and wings that are more pointed.

Habitat and Distribution

These hawks occupy a broad range across North and South America. Their breeding grounds are located in the northern and eastern parts of North America. While many migrate to warmer climates for the winter, five subspecies are endemic to the Caribbean islands and remain resident year-round. They prefer to breed in deciduous forests, which provide suitable nesting sites, and forage in areas such as wetlands and meadows. Migrating individuals are known to travel in large flocks, soaring on thermals for thousands of kilometers. Even birds that have adapted to living near humans tend to avoid direct human settlements and interactions.

Diet and Hunting Behavior

As carnivores, the diet of the broad-winged hawk is varied and depends on seasonal availability. Their prey includes insects, amphibians, reptiles, small mammals like mice and voles, and birds. During the nesting season, they focus on smaller prey such as chipmunks, frogs, and lizards. Their hunting strategy involves perching on low, concealed branches and launching into a short, swift glide to capture prey. They are known for their meticulous preparation of food, often skinning prey like frogs and snakes or plucking feathers from birds before consumption.

Reproduction and Life Cycle

Broad-winged hawks typically form monogamous pairs for the breeding season, which occurs between April and August. Males attract females through elaborate courtship aerial displays. A successful pair will usually raise one brood per season, consisting of one to four eggs. Both parents contribute to nest building, which is done in deciduous trees using sticks and twigs. The female incubates the eggs for about 28 days, and the hatchlings are semialtricial, born with open eyes and covered in down. Both parents care for the young, with the female providing the majority of protection and feeding until the chicks are capable of independent flight, which occurs about 5 to 6 weeks after hatching.

Conservation Status

Despite facing challenges such as habitat fragmentation, which is causing population declines in certain breeding areas, the overall population of the broad-winged hawk is increasing. Consequently, it is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating a relatively stable and widespread status.