Ornate Hawk Eagle

Description

The Ornate Hawk-Eagle, with the widest Neotropical eagle distribution, mainly perches within forest canopies but can be seen on exposed branches, especially in the morning. Their soaring activity peaks in late morning. They primarily forage inside forests, often perch-hunting, with a preference for large birds like chachalacas, guans, and curassows, using short flights between trees or waiting from hidden vantage points. Over 100 prey species are known for them.

Interesting Facts

• Scientific Name: Spizaetus ornatus
• Habitat: Humid tropical forests
• Diet: Small mammals, birds, reptiles

Fun Facts

• They are one of three hawk-eagles native to Belize.
• Females tend to be two times bigger than the males.
• They swoop down from a high altitude and pick their prey from the ground, or chase them through the trees.

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