Habitat: This bird prey can be found in open savannas and pastures in the lowlands. It is important to note that the specimens foudn in Bocas del Toro were reported from the mainland and not the islands. Distribution: This species has been reported from western Panama to central Argentina and Uruguay. Natural History Notes: You may find this species perched on a low tree branch, looking for preys, but they can also walk easily o the grass. Conservation status according to IUCN 2008 Red list: Least Concern (LC). Characteristics: The total length of this species varies between 53 cm and 61 cm (measured from tip of bill to end of tail). This large bird prey has long broad wings but a rather short tail. The neck is also fairly long and suports a small head. The legs are long and yellow colored. The plumage is generally of a light cinnamon coloation with dark gray stripes on the part below. The tail is black and shows a large white band and a white tip. When this hawk species flies, we can see that the flight feathers have their tip black colored. The immature animal will have a browner plumage and will acquire gradually the cinnamon-rufous plumage.