The black-chested buzzard-eagle is a bird of prey of the hawk and eagle family (Accipitridae). It lives in open regions of South America. This species is also known as the black buzzard-eagle, the gray buzzard-eagle, or analogously with "eagle" or "eagle-buzzard" replacing "buzzard-eagle", or as the Chilean blue eagle. It is sometimes placed in the genus Buteo.
Region
Andes and Southern Cone
Typical Environment
Occurs along the Andes from Colombia and Ecuador south through Peru and Bolivia into Chile and Argentina, extending into Patagonia and adjacent lowlands. It favors open habitats such as high Andean puna, Patagonian steppe, arid scrub, and coastal or inland cliffs. The species also utilizes agricultural mosaics where open ground and rocky outcrops are available. Nests are typically placed on cliff ledges or steep crags with commanding views.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 4500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This powerful raptor of the Andes is often seen soaring on thermals over cliffs and open steppe, using broad wings and a short tail to maneuver in strong winds. It preys largely on medium-sized mammals and birds, and in parts of Patagonia its numbers benefit from abundant introduced European hares. Pairs nest on rocky ledges or cliffs, performing dramatic display flights during courtship. The species has sometimes been placed in the genus Buteo, but is widely known as Geranoaetus melanoleucus.
The upperside plumage is quite uniform
In Chingaza National Natural Park, Colombia
Juvenile
Immature plumage
Soaring, Catimbau National Park
In conflict with an Andean condor, Santa Cruz, Argentina
Chilean blue eagle at Knowsley
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
soaring glider
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in territorial pairs. Pairs are monogamous and build large stick nests on cliffs, often reusing and adding to them in successive seasons. Clutch size is small (typically 1–2 eggs), and both adults share in nest defense and rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are mostly carrying, mewing whistles and harsh screams, especially near the nest or during display flights. Calls can become rapid and insistent when intruders approach the territory.
