Introduction

The Galapagos hawk can be found on the majority of the islands in the archipelago in all habitats from the coast to the highlands.  However, they only breed in the lowlands, where it is drier and the breeding conditions are more favourable.  Unfortunately the population of Galapagos hawks has reduced in recent years and there is now only an estimated 130 breeding territories known.

Identification

The Galapagos hawk is a diurnal raptor, easily identifiable by its broad wings and dark plumage.  The male and female are of similar appearance, although the female is somewhat larger in size.  Adults have dark sooty coloured plumage, grey tail and subtle blackish bands.  The flight feathers are noticeably paler in colour than the rest of the wing in flight.  The juveniles in contrast are heavily mottled with buff under parts and tail.

Voice

Galapagos hawks have a varying range of calls; however, they can most typically be heard using a far carrying "kee-kee-kee".

Behaviour

Galapagos hawks are often seen soaring through the Galapagos skies, where they sometimes also hover for periods of time.  Their feeding patterns include a certain amount of both predation and scavenging.  Both males and females assist in rearing the young, while females will usually mate with more than one male.

The Beagle - Mary Anne - Cachalote - Sagitta - Amazonia - Samba - Beluga - Galaxy - Princess Grace - Aida Maria - Eden - Evolution - Eclipse - Grand Odyssey - Journey I - Eric - Flamingo - Letty - Odyssey - Athala - Nemo I - Nemo II - Diamante - Alta - Lammer Law - Rachel - La Pinta  - Humboldt Explorer - Parranda - Isabela (Albemarie) - Santa Cruz (Indefatigable) - San Cristobal (Chatham) - Baltra (South Seymour) - North Seymour (Seymour Norte) - Fernandina (Narborough) - Española (Hood) - Genovesa (Tower) - Bartolomé (Bartolemew) - Santiago (San Salvador or James) - Santa María (Floreana or Charles) - Marchena (Blindoe) - Mosquera - Plaza Sur (South Plaza) - Pinta (Abingdon) - Pinzón (Duncan) - Santa Fé (Barrington) - Rabida (Jervis) - Daphne

Galapagos wildlife birdlife birdwatching & natural history holidays - Sail Galapagos islands - expedition cruise vacation holiday - Ecuador responsible travel - Amazon - Andes - Quito - Guayaquil - sky aggressor  -  Dive Snorkel Diving & Snorkelling - kayak westsuit - Latin & South America journey - Specialist Guided Photography holidays workshops - Charles Darwin Research Station - Galapagos Conservation Trust - Rainforest Concern