Common Black-Hawk

Common black-hawk Buteogallus anthracinus
Identification Tips:
Length: 20 inches Wingspan: 48 inches
Sexes similar
Medium-sized hawk
Broad rounded wings
Hooked beak
Short broad tail ...

The Common Black-Hawk (Buteogallus anthracinus) ranges from the southwestern U.S. into northern South America. It is usually found in association with water since it often feeds on frogs and tadpoles, fish, crabs, crayfish, etc.

Common Black-Hawk is chunkier, has a shorter tail, and lacks rufous.
Northern Harrier has white rump, and has longer and thinner wings and tail.
All About Birds > Bird Guide > Harris's Hawk
Birding Basics ...

The Common Black-Hawk, Buteogallus anthracinus, is found in the Southwestern United States, through Mexico, Central America, and Northern South America to Guyana. They also can be found in Cuba and The Isle of Pines.

Common Black-Hawk, Buteogallus anthracinus
Harris's Hawk, Parabuteo unicinctus
Gray Hawk, Buteo nitidus
Roadside Hawk, Buteo magnirostris (C)
Red-shouldered Hawk, Buteo lineatus
Broad-winged Hawk, Buteo platypterus ...

See also: Hawk, Northern Harrier, Falcon, Vulture, Eagle