The Long-tailed Hawk is a medium-sized raptor found in the rainforests of Central and West Africa, easily identified by its exceptionally long tail and short, rounded wings. It is an agile hunter of birds and squirrels within the forest canopy.
Where to spot
Primary lowland and submontane rainforests of West and Central Africa.
How to spot
Look for its very long, banded tail (about half its total length), dark grey upperparts, and pale barred underparts. Listen for its distinctive, loud calls, which are often the only clue to its presence in the dense forest.
When to spot
Year-round, active during daylight. Very difficult to observe due to its secretive nature and dense habitat.
Where to spot
Primary lowland and submontane rainforests of West and Central Africa.
How to spot
Look for its very long, banded tail (about half its total length), dark grey upperparts, and pale barred underparts. Listen for its distinctive, loud calls, which are often the only clue to its presence in the dense forest.
When to spot
Year-round, active during daylight. Very difficult to observe due to its secretive nature and dense habitat.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Its extremely long tail, unique among African forest raptors, provides superior maneuverability in dense woodland for pursuing agile prey, almost like a rudder.
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