This small buteo is recognized by its long tail and legs, and short wings. The upperparts are a uniform brownish-gray. The tail has bold dark bands and a whitish tip. The head is highlighted by large yellow eyes, yellow facial skin and a yellow cere. The breast shows a solid gray bib, while the belly is barred brown and white. At rest, the short wings extend only halfway down the tail. In flight, a rufous patch covers the bases of the primaries. Juveniles are similar, but browner overall, with a pale supercillium, darker eyes, and a streaked breast.

Length: 33 (cm) Wingspan: 69 (cm)

Habitat:

Field edges, roadsides.

Behavior:

Flies with stiff wingbeats interspersed with glides; accipiter-like.

Feeding:

Hunts insects, small mammals, birds.