The black-collared hawk is a species of bird of prey in the family Accipitridae. It is monotypic within the genus Busarellus. It has a widespread range of presence, from western Mexico to Uruguay. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, subtropical or tropical swamps, and swamps.
Region
Central and South America (Neotropics)
Typical Environment
Occurs from western Mexico through Central America and much of northern and central South America to Uruguay and northern Argentina. It is closely associated with lowland wetlands, including river edges, oxbow lakes, lagoons, marshes, mangroves, and seasonally flooded forests. The species favors open water margins and scattered trees or snags for perching. It generally avoids the interior of dense forest but uses gallery forest along waterways. Often found in the Amazon Basin, the Pantanal, and coastal wetland systems.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This striking raptor is monotypic in the genus Busarellus and is strongly tied to water. It primarily hunts fish, often snatching them from the surface in a swift swoop from low perches along rivers and swamps. Its pale head and bold black neck collar make it easy to identify at a distance.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
soaring glider with leisurely wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen alone or in pairs, defending stretches of rivers or marsh edges. Pairs build platform nests high in trees near water and reuse or refurbish them in subsequent seasons. Clutch size is small, and both adults attend the nest and young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are clear, whistled notes, often plaintive and descending. Calls carry well over water and are given frequently near the nest or when advertising territory.
