The Broad-winged Hawk is a compact Buteo with relatively short, broad wings and a short, square-tipped tail. Adults have brown upperparts, pale underparts with fine horizontal barring, and a distinctive black-and-white banded tail. Juveniles are lighter below with streaked underparts and less distinct tail banding. Body length is typically 34–44 cm, wingspan 81–100 cm, and mass 265–560 g. The species is built for soaring and gliding, with broad wings that aid in thermal riding during migration. Plumage shows little sexual dimorphism, though females are slightly larger. Vocalizations are high-pitched, whistled calls, especially during breeding.
females larger than males; plumage differences minimal.
34–44 cm length
265–560 g
~12 years in wild
Data deficient
Data deficient
~2 years
Apr–Jul in North America; in Costa Rica, resident subspecies breed Mar–Jun
Clutch of 1–4 eggs; one brood/year
The Broad-winged Hawk is a compact Buteo with relatively short, broad wings and a short, square-tipped tail. Adults have brown upperparts, pale underparts with fine horizontal barring, and a distinctive black-and-white banded tail. Juveniles are lighter below with streaked underparts and less distinct tail banding. Body length is typically 34–44 cm, wingspan 81–100 cm, and mass 265–560 g. The species is built for soaring and gliding, with broad wings that aid in thermal riding during migration. Plumage shows little sexual dimorphism, though females are slightly larger. Vocalizations are high-pitched, whistled calls, especially during breeding.
Prefers forest edges, open woodlands, and clearings; in Costa Rica, found from lowlands to montane slopes, including second-growth and agricultural mosaics.
Opportunistic predator; consumes small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and large insects.
Diurnal; solitary or in pairs during breeding season. Highly social during migration, forming large flocks in thermals. Uses soaring flight to conserve energy. Courtship involves aerial displays and vocal calls. Territorial during breeding, but tolerant of conspecifics in non-breeding season.
Notable for spectacular mass migrations through Central America, visible at hawk watch sites.
Some populations are migratory, while others are year-round residents in the tropics.
Known for “kettling” behavior, soaring in large spirals during migration.
Migratory
Decreasing
