High up in the canopy, a flash of rufous feathers cuts through the emerald embrace of the Costa Rican rainforest. It’s the Black-collared Hawk, a bird of prey as adept at soaring as it is at snatching unsuspecting fish from the water’s surface. This week, on our journey through the incredible avian diversity of Costa Rica, we meet this specialized predator with a striking appearance.
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A Master of the Marsh
The Black-collared Hawk (Busarellus nigricollis) isn’t your typical mountain dweller. Unlike many birds you might see here at our Costa Rican retreat, this hawk prefers the steamy embrace of the lowlands. Think tropical rainforests, swamps, and mangroves – areas with abundant freshwater and a healthy dose of humidity. While sightings in the high mountains are rare, if you’re exploring the Pacific Coast lowlands or venturing into Tortuguero National Park, you might just be lucky enough to spot this magnificent raptor.
Striking Features
The Black-collared Hawk earns its name from the bold black band that encircles its throat, a stark contrast to its otherwise rufous body. Imagine a rusty-colored chest, accented with black speckles, that transitions into a rich cinnamon back. The head is a symphony of contrasting tones – a buffy white base streaked with black on the crown. Keep an eye out for the sharp, black beak and the piercing reddish-brown eyes that scan the water for any sign of movement.
A Fishing Specialist
Unlike the Osprey, another fish-eating hawk, the Black-collared Hawk doesn’t have waterproof plumage. So how does it snag its aquatic prey? This resourceful hunter has a secret weapon – its feet! The undersides of its toes are equipped with special conical spikes, perfectly designed for gripping slippery fish. Soaring high above the water, the Black-collared Hawk dives with incredible speed, snatches its unsuspecting prey, and then returns to a perch to enjoy its meal.
A Solitary Soul
These hawks are typically solitary creatures, except during breeding season when you might see a mated pair soaring together. They build their nests high up in trees, crafting a platform of sticks and twigs lined with softer materials. The female lays up to three eggs, and both parents take turns incubating and caring for the chicks.
A Species to Seek
The Black-collared Hawk, with its unique adaptation for fishing and its striking plumage, is a true wonder of the Costa Rican lowlands. While you might not see it from our mountain retreat, if your Costa Rican adventure takes you to the wetlands and coastal regions, keep your eyes peeled for this magnificent predator. And if you’re lucky enough to spot it, take a moment to appreciate the specialized skills and beauty of this master of the marsh.
Coming Up Next
Our exploration of Costa Rica’s incredible birds continues next week. So, stay tuned as we take flight with another feathered resident of this beautiful country!
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
