2 minute read
Wild Side
El Residente 34 Wild Side
Hawks
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Hawks are special to many people, and it is no wonder considering that the relation between man and raptor dates back thousands of years. That relationship has been almost symbiotic, with hawks being used as hunters to gather sustenance, and later for sport, all over the globe. The conquistadors noted as early as 1500 that the Aztecs used trained hawks to hunt.
by Ryan Piercy
Costa Rica, unsurprisingly, has several species of hawks that one may observe, with luck and a keen eye. Though the hawks here are smaller than their cousins the eagles, they are just as captivating and form the broadest category of raptors. Apart from their usually smaller size, rarely exceeding eight pounds, they can be differentiated from eagles as having a dark curved beak, as opposed to the lighter hooked beak of the eagle. Their colors also differ, with hawks generally boasting beautiful gray to reddish brown plumage in addition to black and white feathers. With as many as 24 species of hawks to be found in Costa Rica, it is possible to pass near one species or another throughout most of the countryside. This high diversity means there will also be smaller pockets of individual species in various locations throughout the country.
Most hawks in Costa Rica are of the forest variety, or accipiters. From the tiny hawk at just 8-inches, to the largest variety, the great black hawk at 26-inches, they will usually watch for their prey from perches high in the forest. This tactic makes it more difficult for birders to locate them, versus species that soar high up while hunting. Being well camouflaged is just a part of their existence, thus using birding guides to identify them is usually a good idea.
Some species, such as the roadside hawk and the broad-wing hawk, will be easier to find; they may just be hanging out in a tree as you drive down a country road. Gray hawks are also a common sight as they may occur almost everywhere in the country. Most species can be found inhabiting the various large parks and reserves. One location which comes highly recommended to those in search of good viewing opportunities is Cinchona-Virgen del Socorro, located in the Central Valley. Just over an hour drive on good roads from San José, it provides a great vantage over the forest, giving a chance to see some species such as the barred hawk, short-tailed hawk, as well as the broad-wing hawk and gray hawk mentioned above. One might even get the opportunity to see the bright and beautiful white hawk. This location is near the Braulio Carrillo Park, which offers the possibility of discovering other rarer species which may come into view. Another good location is near La Paz. Take a few days to stay there to enjoy the waterfall gardens and Poas Volcano, and discover what other varieties of hawks inhabit the area. Happy hawking!
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