Beautiful Birds of Belize Blog – Post #40

By Jim Gain

6/20/2023

• Scientific Name: Pseudastur albicollis
• Name in Spanish (Mexico): Aguililla Blanca
• ABA 4-Letter Bird Code: WHHA
• Family: Accipitridae – Hawks, Eagles, and Kites
• Order: Accipitriformes – Diurnal Birds of Prey

About this Species

The White Hawk (Pseudastur albicollis) is a large raptor found throughout Central and South America, including Belize. Plumage is white overall with black wingtips and a black tail band. Immature has more black on wings, as do adults of populations in southern Central America. White Hawks are typically found in forested areas, particularly near rivers and other bodies of water, where they hunt for prey such as reptiles, birds, and mammals.

In Belize, the White Hawk is a relatively common sight in many forested areas, particularly in the central and southern parts of the country. These birds typically build their nests in tall trees and lay 2-3 eggs, which hatch after about 35 days of incubation. The chicks are cared for by both parents and fledge after about 6-7 weeks. While the White Hawk is not currently considered to be threatened or endangered, habitat loss and other factors could impact their populations in the future.

>> Next Post on Friday, 6/23/2023 – Vermilion Flycatcher

Previous posts from Beautiful Birds of Belize Blog

• White Ibis
• Limpkin
• Anhinga
• Scaly-breasted Hummingbird
• Gray-breasted Martin