It is a large raptor with a robust build and powerful silhouette, featuring broad wings and a relatively short tail. Adult plumage shows a strong contrast between the dark upperparts and pale underparts, with whitish breast and belly finely barred. The head is dark gray, the bill strong and hooked, and the legs long and muscular, well adapted for capturing sizeable prey.
Geographic distribution: It is widely distributed across South America, ranging from southern Colombia and Peru to southernmost Argentina and Chile. In Argentina, it occurs throughout much of the country, from Andean regions to Patagonian plains, demonstrating remarkable ecological flexibility.
Habitat: It occupies a wide variety of open environments, including steppes, grasslands, mountainous areas, plateaus, and semi-arid regions. The species favors landscapes with broad visibility, allowing efficient use of thermal currents and long-distance prey detection.
Feeding: Its diet is carnivorous and diverse, consisting mainly of small to medium-sized mammals, such as rodents and hares, as well as birds, reptiles, and occasionally carrion. It is an efficient predator, capable of hunting both from low flight and elevated perches.
Behavior: The species is generally solitary or found in pairs, performing wide soaring flights that rely heavily on thermals. It becomes territorial during the breeding season and is often seen perched on rocks, poles, or natural elevations, scanning the surroundings.
Nesting: Breeding occurs mainly in spring. It builds large nests, often reused for several years, placed on rocky ledges, cliffs, or tall trees. The clutch usually includes one to two eggs, incubated by both adults, followed by an extended period of parental care.
Conservation status: It is classified as a species of Least Concern, with relatively stable populations throughout most of its range. However, local threats include human persecution, prey depletion, and habitat alteration.
Author of this compilation: EcoRegistros – 16/12/2025