A large predatory bird of prey native to South America, characterized by its distinctive appearance and opportunistic feeding behaviors.
Image Gallery
ADSENSE SLOT
Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Diverse landscapes including grasslands, savannas, open woodlands, and agricultural regions across southern Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Bolivia
Ecological Role
Key predator and scavenger in ecosystem, controlling small vertebrate populations and participating in carrion removal, contributing to nutrient cycling
Morphology
SKIN COATPredominantly brown and black plumage, with distinctive barred and streaked feather patterns
LIMBS WINGSStrong talons, wingspan of 110-130 cm, adapted for ground hunting and perching
HEAD SENSORYLarge hooked beak, keen binocular vision, dark crown with white neck patches, distinctive facial coloration
BODY STRUCTURELarge raptor with robust build, approximately 50-65 cm in length, weighing 0.8-1.5 kg, with broad wings and powerful legs