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Variable Hawk

Variable Hawk

Colombia
Status
Unknown

IUCN conservation assessment category

Habitat
grassland borders, forest canopies, and open skies

Primary ecological niche & biome

Diet
reptiles, small mammals, and large insects

Dietary type and primary food source

Activity
soaring diurnal

Diurnal, nocturnal, or active patterns

Scientific Summary

GBIF Taxonomic Backbone & Wikipedia Registry Profile

Ecorregión (Hernández et al. (1992): Western Ecuator moist forests (Wemf): Distrito Mikay y Awá; Northwester Andean montane forests (NAmf): Distrito Bosques Andinos Nariño occidental y Distrito Selva subanadina vertiente Pacífico-Cauca
Biology & Conservation

Ecologically, the conservation status of Variable Hawk is officially designated as Unknown. Current field registries estimate a global population composed of an unquantified number of individuals, making habitat preservation critical to maintaining their wild populations.

It is typically endemic to grassland borders, forest canopies, and open skies, showing great physiological synergy with its surroundings. In terms of dietary preferences, it relies primarily on a diet of reptiles, small mammals, and large insects. It exhibits specialized adaptations centered around a soaring diurnal activity pattern, optimizing its energy conservation and interactions within its native ecosystem. The species has a typical natural lifespan of approximately 20 years, allowing it to adapt and mature through structured generational cycles.

Ongoing biological monitoring and ecological advocacy emphasize the importance of protecting this species. The stability of its food chain and the prevention of fragmentation in its primary range are vital for the continued survival of Variable Hawk.

Energy & Activity Profile
Habitat & Adaptation Index
Quick Facts
Native RangeColombia
Habitat Rangegrassland borders, forest canopies, and open skies
Lifespan20 Yrs
StatusUnknown
ScientificButeo polyosoma
Registry Info
Lifespan20 years
KingdomAnimalia
FamilyAccipitridae
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