The savanna hawk is a large raptor found in open savanna and swamp edges. It was formerly placed in the genus Heterospizias. It breeds from Panama and Trinidad south to Bolivia, Uruguay and central Argentina. There are also reports of it in California, from 1973 in Alameda County and from 1974 in San Diego County.
Region
Central and South America (Neotropics)
Typical Environment
Common in open savannas, seasonally flooded grasslands, llanos, cerrado edges, and marsh or swamp margins. It also uses pastures, ranchlands, and roadside corridors with scattered trees or palms. Especially numerous in extensive wetland systems such as the Pantanal and Orinoco Llanos. Generally avoids dense forest interiors but frequents gallery forest edges and isolated trees for perching and nesting.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This long-legged raptor is often seen perched on fence posts across open savannas and wetlands, and it readily hunts along the edges of grass fires to catch fleeing prey. Formerly placed in the genus Heterospizias, it is widespread from Panama and Trinidad south to Bolivia, Uruguay, and central Argentina. It frequently forages on foot and is notable for its bright orange legs and cere.
Flying in Goias, Brazil
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
soaring glider with steady, deep wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, often conspicuously perched on posts or trees overlooking open ground. Forms monogamous pairs and builds a stick platform nest, often in palms or isolated trees near wetlands. Clutches are typically one to two eggs, and adults may decorate nests with green leaves. Territorial displays include soaring and calling over the nesting area.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives loud, clear, descending whistles that carry over open habitats. Calls often delivered from a perch or during slow circling flight, especially near the nest.
