A small, agile raptor with short, rounded wings and a long tail, native to North and Central America. Specialized in hunting small birds through dense forest environments.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Coniferous and mixed forests, woodland edges, mountain regions from boreal to temperate zones across North and Central America, ranging from Canada to Panama
Ecological Role
Key predator in forest ecosystems, controlling populations of small birds and maintaining ecological balance, serves as indicator species for forest health
Morphology
SKIN COATDark gray to slate blue dorsal plumage; lighter gray to white ventral plumage with fine reddish-brown barring
LIMBS WINGSShort, rounded wings for maneuverability; legs with sharp talons for capturing prey; tail used for precise aerial navigation
HEAD SENSORYSharp, hooked beak; large forward-facing eyes with exceptional visual acuity; acute hearing
BODY STRUCTURECompact, lightweight body; total length 23-35 cm; wingspan 40-58 cm; mass 82-220 g
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: USFWS Mountain-Prairie
