Great Black Hawks (Buteogallus urubitinga) are large birds of prey that are mostly black with yellow legs and a yellow cere. They have relatively long legs and a black and white tail. Juvenile hawks are more brown overall with brownish markings on the breast. These hawks spend their time soaring very high or perched. Researchers in Argentina have noted that, when not in breeding season, this species does engage in some altitudinal migrations.
Size Difference Between Male and Female Great Black Hawks
The primary difference between male and female Great Black Hawks is their size. Females are typically larger than males. However, there are no specific measurements or data points provided to quantify this difference.
Nesting and Breeding Behavior
Image source: Great Black Hawk by Bernard DUPONT
Great Black Hawks build a platform nest made of sticks constructed high up in an emergent tree or on power poles. The female lays one egg which is white with red to purplish brown markings and incubates it for 35-37 days. After hatching, the male brings food to the nest for the female and the offspring, while the female retrieves it and feeds the nestling. The nestling will fledge around 40 days after hatching and remain with its parents for several months, learning how to hunt and survive on its own.
Conservation Status of Great Black Hawks
Great Black Hawks are categorized as a species of Least Concern, though they might be at risk from habitat loss and shooting in some areas.
Unique Characteristics of Great Black Hawks
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Plumage: Great Black Hawks are mostly black in color, with yellow legs and a yellow cere (the area around the beak). Juvenile hawks are more brown overall with brownish markings on the breast.
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Tail Coloration: Great Black Hawks have a distinctive black and white tail.
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Hunting Behavior: These hawks spend their time soaring very high or perched, waiting to spot their prey.
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Migratory Behavior: Researchers in Argentina have noted that, when not in breeding season, this species does engage in some altitudinal migrations.
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Nest Construction: Great Black Hawks build a platform nest made of sticks constructed high up in an emergent tree or on power poles.
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Egg Laying and Incubation: The female lays one egg, which is white with red to purplish brown markings, and incubates it for 35-37 days.
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Parental Care: After the nestling hatches, the male brings food to the nest for the female and the offspring, while the female retrieves it and feeds the nestling. The nestling will fledge around 40 days after hatching and remain with its parents for several months, learning how to hunt and survive on its own.
Conclusion
In summary, the primary difference between male and female Great Black Hawks is their size, with females being larger than males. These hawks have distinctive black and white plumage, long legs, and a unique hunting and nesting behavior. While they are currently categorized as a species of Least Concern, they may face threats from habitat loss and shooting in some areas.
