Birds
Ornate Hawk-eagle
Spizaetus ornatus
Framed by a striking rufous collar and topped with a long black crest, an ornate hawk-eagle waits motionless on a concealed forest perch, ready to ambush prey considerably larger than many raptors its size would attempt.
Overview
The ornate hawk-eagle, Spizaetus ornatus, is a Near Threatened bird of prey found across Neotropical lowland forest from Mexico south through Central America and much of tropical South America. Its striking rufous-and-black plumage, prominent crest, and ability to capture prey as large as small monkeys make it one of the most visually distinctive and formidable forest eagles in the Americas.
A powerful hunter in disguise
Rather than chasing prey across open sky, the ornate hawk-eagle relies on surprise, waiting silently on a concealed perch before launching a sudden attack capable of overpowering birds and mammals far larger than many raptors of similar size would attempt.
Status
Near Threatened, with a declining population as Neotropical lowland forest across its range continues to be cleared and fragmented.
Ornate Hawk-eagle: common questions
Why is it called the ornate hawk-eagle?
Its striking rufous face and neck framing bold black-and-white banded plumage, combined with a prominent crest, give the species an especially decorative appearance that inspired its common name.
What does the ornate hawk-eagle eat?
It is a carnivore, hunting birds and mammals up to the size of small monkeys, typically ambushing prey from a concealed perch within the forest canopy.
Why is the ornate hawk-eagle declining?
Deforestation across its Neotropical lowland forest range has reduced and fragmented the large stretches of intact forest it depends on for hunting.
Where is the ornate hawk-eagle found?
It ranges across Neotropical lowland forest from Mexico south through Central America and much of tropical South America.