The plain-breasted hawk is a small hawk described from Venezuela to western Bolivia. It is usually considered a subspecies of the sharp-shinned hawk by most taxonomists, including the American Ornithological Society, but the taxonomy is far from resolved, with some authorities considering the southern taxa to represent three separate species: white-breasted hawk, plain-breasted hawk, and rufous-thighed hawk.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs along the Andes from western Venezuela through Colombia and Ecuador to Peru and western Bolivia. It favors humid montane and cloud forests, as well as forest edges, second growth, and riparian corridors. The species often uses semi-open areas adjacent to forest for hunting while relying on dense cover for nesting. It is typically local but can be fairly common where suitable forest persists.
Altitude Range
800–3500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Often treated as part of the Sharp-shinned Hawk complex, the plain-breasted hawk is recognized by some authorities as a distinct Andean species. Adults typically show a comparatively plain, pale belly with fine rufous barring concentrated on the upper breast. It inhabits montane forests from Venezuela to western Bolivia. It is closely related to the white-breasted and rufous-thighed hawks, with which it forms a challenging identification group.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides
Social Behavior
Typically hunts alone and defends nesting territories in forested habitats. Nest is a stick platform placed high in a tree, often within dense canopy near forest interior or edge. Breeding pairs are monogamous during the season and both sexes contribute to territory defense.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Generally quiet away from the nest. During breeding, gives sharp, high-pitched kek-kek-kek alarm calls and shorter whistles. Vocalizations are most frequent near the nest or when agitated.
Plumage
Adult with slate-gray upperparts and mostly pale underparts that appear relatively plain, showing fine rufous barring across the upper breast and flanks; belly often cleaner and less barred than related forms. Juveniles are brown above with coarse streaking below. Tail shows narrow dark bands and a thin whitish tip.
Diet
Primarily preys on small birds taken by surprise attacks from cover. Also captures small mammals, lizards, and large insects when available. It uses stealthy perches and rapid, low dashes to intercept prey at forest edges and clearings. Prey is typically plucked on a secluded perch.
Preferred Environment
Hunts along forest edges, gaps, and secondary growth where prey activity is high. Uses dense foliage within montane forest for ambush and as refuge after strikes.
