The white-tailed hawk is a large bird of prey species found in tropical and subtropical environments of the Americas.
Region
Neotropics and southern North America
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Texas and the Gulf Coast of the United States through Mexico and Central America to much of South America, reaching as far as central Argentina. Prefers open habitats such as coastal prairies, savannas, shrub-steppe, cerrado, caatinga, llanos, and pampas, and generally avoids dense forest. Often associated with thornscrub, open ranchlands, and semi-arid landscapes where updrafts aid soaring. Frequently perches on fence posts, yucca, or isolated trees to scan for prey.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The white-tailed hawk is a broad-winged raptor of open country, noted for its striking white tail capped by a bold black band. It often hunts by facing into the wind and kiting motionless over grasslands. Nests are frequently built in low trees, yucca, or cacti, and it ranges from southern Texas through much of Central and South America. Adults show a rich rufous shoulder patch in flight that contrasts with gray upperparts and white underparts.
Adult B. a. hypospodius at Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, Texas, USA
Adult, SE Brazil
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
soaring glider with frequent kiting; steady wingbeats interspersed with long glides
Social Behavior
Typically seen alone or in pairs, maintaining territories over open country. Pairs build bulky stick nests in low trees, yucca, or large cacti and are generally monogamous. Clutches are small, often 1–3 eggs, and both adults help guard the nest and territory.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Generally quiet, but gives sharp, whistled calls and squealing cries, especially near the nest. Alarm calls are harsher, carrying well over open habitats.
