Red-backed Hawk
Buteo polyosoma
Local Name: Red-backed Buzzard, Hawk,
Grey-backed (male)
Breeding Range: Falklands and South
America
Length: 54cm
Falklands Population: ~500 breeding pairs
World Population: unknown
Although not particularly numerous due to
their requirements for large breeding territories, Red-backed Hawks
are found throughout most of the Falklands.
Favourite nesting sites are rocky outcrops
and low cliffs, with nests being made from twigs and vegetation.
The nests are re-used each year, although a pair may hold two or
three nests within their territory from which to choose.
Two or three eggs are laid in October and
the young fledge in January. Adults feed on small birds, introduced
rabbits, hares and rodents, and occasionally carrion.
All adults have grey upper-wings, but only
the males have grey backs, the females being distinguished by their
chestnut backs. There are light and dark variations in both sexes,
but this should not confuse identification.
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Red-backed
Hawk
Buteo polyosoma
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Adopt and name your penguin,
and we will send you reports and photos of your penguin's progress. We
will even send you a map to show you exactly where your penguin lives,
in case you ever want to visit. (Visitors are welcome).
Learn
More
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The Falklands Regime by Mike Bingham
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