High up in the canopy of Costa Rica’s mountain rainforests, a flash of grey streaks between the emerald leaves. This isn’t a fleeting shadow, but the Gray-bellied Hawk (Accipiter poliogaster), a rarely seen but magnificent predator gracing the skies above our Costa Rican retreat.
A Secretive Hunter
The Gray-bellied Hawk is a true denizen of the dense forests. Unlike its open-country cousins, this medium-sized raptor (38-51 cm) prefers the tangled undergrowth and towering trees. This cryptic lifestyle makes them a challenge to spot, but their presence is undeniable in the hushed whispers of the forest.
Sexual Dimorphism on Display
While perched on a hidden branch, take a closer look if you’re lucky enough to encounter one. The Gray-bellied Hawk exhibits a fascinating sexual dimorphism, where males and females have distinct appearances. Males sport a sleek, grey face, contrasting beautifully with their dark grey upperparts. Their undersides are a lighter shade of grey, almost white, with prominent white underwings – a sight that can momentarily turn this predator into a flash of light as it takes flight.
Females, on the other hand, showcase a more striking look. Their faces are a bold black, adding a touch of fierceness to their gaze. The rest of their plumage follows a similar pattern to the males, with dark grey above and light grey below.
A Glimpse of Juvenile Majesty
If you spot a Gray-bellied Hawk with a dash of orange, you’ve encountered a juvenile. These young birds are a sight to behold, resembling miniature Ornate Hawk-Eagles. Their backs are a dusky grey, but their napes and breasts are adorned with a vibrant rufous orange. Their bellies are white, spotted and barred with black, adding a touch of whimsy to their otherwise fierce appearance.
Masters of the Hunt
Despite their beauty, the Gray-bellied Hawk is a formidable predator. Their sharp yellow beaks and talons are built for hunting small birds, mammals like rodents, and even reptiles. They are ambush predators, patiently waiting for their prey to emerge from the undergrowth before launching a surprise attack with their incredible agility.
A Rare Encounter, a Priceless Memory
Spotting a Gray-bellied Hawk in the wild is a true privilege. Their secretive nature and preference for dense forests make them one of Costa Rica’s avian enigmas. But for the keen observer venturing deep into the mountains, a glimpse of this magnificent raptor soaring through the rainforest canopy is an unforgettable experience, a testament to the hidden wonders that lurk within the heart of our Costa Rican retreat.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
