High atop the misty mountains of Costa Rica, our secluded retreat offers not only breathtaking vistas but also a chance encounter with some of the most magnificent avian residents. Today, we turn our gaze skyward to a captivating predator, the Short-tailed Hawk.

A Master of Two Morphs:

The Short-tailed Hawk is a captivating sight, but its appearance can vary depending on the individual. Some soar with plumage as dark as a rich chocolate, their undersides revealing hints of a lighter hue on the outer flight feathers. These are the dark morph adults, masters of camouflage that can blend seamlessly with the shadows.

Juveniles in the dark morph share a similar base color, but their chests are adorned with distinct spots, a pattern that fades with age. They also lack the terminal band, a dark band at the wingtip, present in adults.

But the Short-tailed Hawk also boasts a lighter side. The light morph adults are a study in contrasts – their undersides gleam a pristine white, while their upper bodies are awash in a warm brown. A rusty patch adorns the side of their necks, adding a pop of color. A dark hood frames their faces, with a stark white throat completing the picture. Light morph juveniles resemble their adult counterparts, minus the rusty patch.

A telltale sign for all Short-tailed Hawks, regardless of morph, is their tail. True to their name, it’s shorter than many other hawk species. Additionally, all morphs exhibit a faintly banded pattern on their tails, a subtle characteristic that aids in identification.

A Hunter’s Grace:

The Short-tailed Hawk is a soaring specialist. With wings held flat and tips slightly upturned, they patrol the skies, searching for unsuspecting prey. Their keen eyesight allows them to spot lizards, snakes, small mammals, and even large insects from a distance. When a target is identified, the hawk dives with incredible speed, often tucking its wings close to its body for a powerful descent. This aerial ambush technique leaves prey with little chance of escape.

Finding Your Short-tailed Success:

Our mountain retreat provides the perfect environment to witness these soaring hunters in action. Keep your eyes peeled for them circling high above, their silhouettes sharp against the clear blue canvas. With a little patience, you might even witness their dramatic hunting dives, a testament to their predatory prowess.

Beyond the Mountains:

While the Short-tailed Hawk is a common sight at our retreat, its range extends far beyond the mountains. It’s found throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, from southern Florida to northern Argentina. So, even if you’re not nestled amidst our mountain peaks, you might encounter this adaptable bird in other parts of Central and South America.

Short-tailed Hawk – A Costa Rican Treasure:

The Short-tailed Hawk is a magnificent emblem of Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity. Their diverse plumage, soaring grace, and impressive hunting skills make them a captivating addition to any birdwatching adventure. So, keep your eyes on the skies during your visit to our mountain retreat. You might just be rewarded with a glimpse of this soaring success story.

For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica