Great Black Hawks (Buteogallus urubitinga) are large birds of prey found in Central and South America, primarily in lowland forests, mangroves, and swamps. These majestic birds have several adaptations that help them survive in snowy conditions, but their ability to withstand prolonged exposure to extreme cold is limited.
Nest Construction: Insulating the Eggs and Nestlings
Great Black Hawks build platform nests made of sticks, constructing them high up in emergent trees or on power poles. This strategic placement helps keep the eggs and nestlings insulated from the cold ground, providing an essential layer of protection against the snow.
Feather Insulation: Trapping Heat
Image source: Great Black Hawk by Bernard DUPONT
These birds have a unique adaptation in the form of down feathers that work effectively to trap heat, allowing them to maintain a body temperature of 104 degrees Fahrenheit even in freezing weather. This insulation is crucial for their survival during the colder months.
Regulated Hypothermia: Adapting to the Cold
Great Black Hawks can also employ a form of regulated hypothermia or torpor, where they can temporarily lower their body temperature to adapt to the cold. This adaptation, however, comes with a trade-off, as it can result in slower reaction times and movement.
Limitations in Extreme Cold
Despite these adaptations, Great Black Hawks are not well-suited to survive in extreme cold for extended periods. A notable example is the case of a Great Black Hawk that gained fame in Portland, Maine, which was found with frostbite on its long, bare legs after a cold snap and snowstorm. The bird was taken to a rehabilitation facility, where it received excellent care, but there was still uncertainty about its injuries and the possibility of recovery.
Altitudinal Migrations: Seeking Warmer Climates
During the non-breeding season, Great Black Hawks are known to engage in some altitudinal migrations, moving to higher elevations or warmer regions to escape the harsh conditions of their breeding grounds. This behavior helps them avoid the most extreme cold and snow, increasing their chances of survival.
Conclusion
In summary, Great Black Hawks have several adaptations that help them survive in snowy conditions, including insulated nests, down feathers, and regulated hypothermia. However, their ability to withstand prolonged exposure to extreme cold is limited, and they may face challenges in the face of severe winter weather. Altitudinal migrations during the non-breeding season provide an additional strategy for these birds to seek out more favorable climates and increase their chances of survival.
References:
– How do birds survive the incredible cold temperatures of the polar vortex? (2019, January 30). Retrieved from https://www.reddit.com/r/askscience/comments/algikg/how_do_birds_survive_the_incredible_cold/
– Great Black Hawk | The Peregrine Fund. (2021, September 6). Retrieved from https://www.peregrinefund.org/explore-raptors-species/hawks/great-black-hawk
– The Great Black Hawk: What Happens Now? – Maine Audubon. (2019, January 22). Retrieved from https://maineaudubon.org/news/the-great-black-hawk-what-happens-now/
– After an Injury, Maine’s Famous Great Black Hawk Faces an Uncertain Future. (2019, January 28). Retrieved from https://www.audubon.org/news/after-injury-maines-famous-great-black-hawk-faces-uncertain-future
– Raptors of the World. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.allaboutbirds.org/news/raptors-of-the-world/
