The black hawk-eagle, also known as the tyrant hawk-eagle, is a species of eagle found from central Mexico through Central America into the south of Brazil to Colombia, eastern Peru, and as far as northern Argentina. There are two known subspecies, S.t. tyrannus, which is found in Southeastern Brazil and Northeastern Argentina, and the slightly smaller S. t. serus, which can be found elsewhere throughout the species' range. Its preferred habitats include humid and moist forests close to rivers, and several types of woodland. It is uncommon to fairly common throughout most of its range. Its closest relative is the ornate hawk-eagle, which is similar in size, appearance and behavior but lives at lower elevations.
Region
Central and South America
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Mexico through Central America to northern Argentina, eastern Peru, and much of Brazil, including the Atlantic Forest. Prefers humid and moist broadleaf forests, riparian woodlands, and mature secondary growth. It often hunts along rivers, forest edges, and clearings but requires extensive forest cover. The species is generally uncommon yet widespread, with two subspecies differing slightly in size and distribution. It overlaps with ornate hawk-eagle in parts of its range but tends to occupy higher, cooler foothill zones.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the tyrant hawk-eagle, this forest raptor ranges from Mexico through much of Central and South America. It is often seen soaring above the canopy or cruising along rivers and forest edges. Pairs are strongly territorial and perform striking display flights accompanied by piercing whistles. It is easily confused with the ornate hawk-eagle but averages darker overall and frequents higher elevations.
Ailigandí area, Panama
A captive adult black hawk-eagle.
Wild juvenile black hawk-eagle.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
soaring glider with powerful, deliberate wingbeats between long glides
Social Behavior
Typically encountered alone or as established pairs maintaining large territories. Builds a bulky stick nest high in tall forest trees; breeding pairs are monogamous. Usually lays a single egg, with a long nestling and post-fledging dependency period typical of large forest raptors.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocal for a large eagle, giving high, whistled screams and piping notes, especially during display flights. Calls carry far over the canopy and are often heard at dawn and early morning.
