High up in the canopy, a flash of rufous feathers catches your eye. The Savanna Hawk, a statuesque predator with an impressive wingspan, circles effortlessly against the backdrop of the Costa Rican mountains. As a guest at our secluded retreat, you have a prime opportunity to witness this magnificent bird in its natural habitat.
The Savanna Hawk, also known as the Red-winged Hawk or Tawny Hawk, is a common sight in open areas like pastures, savannas, and – you guessed it – the edges of mountain forests where our retreat is nestled. This aptly named bird is a member of the Accipitridae family, which includes hawks, eagles, and kites.
Standing tall on its long yellow legs, the Savanna Hawk cuts an imposing figure. Adults are adorned with a rich rufous plumage, with a hint of grey mottling on the upperparts and fine black barring gracing their underbelly. Their broad wings, tipped with black flight feathers, and the distinctive black and white banded tail make them instantly recognizable.
While soaring gracefully is certainly part of their repertoire, the Savanna Hawk is a surprisingly adaptable hunter. Unlike many raptors who rely solely on aerial attacks, the Savanna Hawk utilizes a diverse hunting strategy. Perched strategically on fence posts, power lines, or even high termite mounds, they scan the landscape for prey. Their keen eyesight allows them to spot lizards, snakes, small mammals, and even large insects from afar.
But the Savanna Hawk isn’t afraid to get its talons dirty. With their long legs, they can stalk prey on the ground, much like a wading bird. This opportunistic approach makes them efficient hunters, readily adapting to the available food sources. They’ve even been documented following forest fires to snatch fleeing prey or stealing food from unsuspecting herons – a testament to their resourcefulness.
The Savanna Hawk’s call is a loud, piercing scream, often described as a high-pitched “keeeeru.” This vocalization serves as a territorial declaration, keeping other predators at bay. Interestingly, the Savanna Hawk tends to be quite territorial, often remaining in the same area year-round.
Fortunately for our guests, the mountains surrounding our retreat provide a perfect habitat for the Savanna Hawk. With ample open areas and forest edges, these birds thrive here. So, keep your eyes peeled during your nature walks, and you might just spot this magnificent raptor soaring overhead, a majestic emblem of the Costa Rican skies.
Spotting Tips:
- Look for the Savanna Hawk perched on prominent locations like fence posts, power lines, or termite mounds.
- Pay attention to open areas, pastures, and the edges of mountain forests.
- Listen for their high-pitched scream, a telltale sign of their presence.
Conservation Status:
Thankfully, the Savanna Hawk is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. Their populations seem to be stable, and they readily adapt to various habitats.
By protecting the natural ecosystems of Costa Rica, we can ensure that these remarkable birds continue to grace our skies for generations to come.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
