High in the cloud-kissed mountains of our Costa Rican retreat, a silent predator glides effortlessly through the verdant canopy. This isn’t your everyday hawk; this is the Barred Hawk, a resident of the upper reaches of the forest, shrouded in mystery and magnificence.

For the keen-eyed birdwatcher, spotting a Barred Hawk is a coup. Unlike its more common cousin, the Cooper’s Hawk, the Barred Hawk prefers the dense embrace of the rainforests. Here, amidst the emerald labyrinth of leaves, it reigns supreme.

A Majestic Shadow

The Barred Hawk is a medium-sized raptor, with a wingspan reaching up to four and a half feet. Its plumage is a captivating study in contrasts. The upper parts, including the head, throat, and upper breast, are awash in a cool, slaty gray. This dark coloring transitions dramatically into a stark white underbelly, delicately barred with thin, dark lines – a feature that gives the hawk its namesake. The tail feathers are black, adorned with a single, brilliant white band.

A master of the Mid-Elevations

While Costa Rica boasts a diverse range of habitats, the Barred Hawk is a creature of the mid-elevations. It thrives in the lush embrace of subtropical and tropical moist forests, at altitudes ranging from 980 to 8,200 feet. Here, the dense foliage provides the perfect cover for this elusive hunter.

A Vocal Predator

Despite its preference for solitude, the Barred Hawk is a surprisingly vocal bird. Often, the first hint of its presence is a series of far-carrying descending whistles, a haunting melody echoing through the silent mountains. This call, often repeated in quick succession, serves as a territorial proclamation and a way to attract mates.

A Glimpse into the Hidden World

The Barred Hawk is a creature of the shadows, rarely seen perched on an open branch. Your best chance of spotting one is to be patient and observant during hikes or birdwatching excursions in the higher elevations of our retreat. Keep an eye out for a flash of dark wings against the emerald canopy, or listen for the tell-tale whistles that pierce the mountain air. A sighting of the Barred Hawk is a truly unforgettable experience, a glimpse into a hidden world where nature’s silent hunters reign supreme.

Beyond the Blog

If you’re an avid birdwatcher or simply someone who enjoys the thrill of spotting a rare creature, our Costa Rican retreat offers the perfect opportunity to encounter the Barred Hawk. Our knowledgeable guides can help you navigate the trails that lead to the Barred Hawk’s preferred habitat and equip you with the knowledge and skills to identify this magnificent raptor. So, come, explore the cloud forests of our mountain retreat, and keep your eyes peeled for a fleeting glimpse of the enigmatic Barred Hawk.

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