Roadside Hawk

The Roadside Hawk (Rupornis magnirostris) is a small diurnal bird of prey. They are opportunistic hunters. Their diet consists primarily of insects, such as dragonflies, grasshoppers, beetles and cicadas. However, Roadside Hawks can also feed on small birds (honeycreepers and doves), small mammals (mice, squirrels, and bats), reptiles (frogs, salamanders and lizards) and also on spiders and scorpions.

There are many subspecies of Roadside Hawks that are divided into three main groups: Northern, Southern and Cozumel Island. The subspecies can vary slightly in plumage and size. Roadside Hawks generally have grey or brown heads, brown backs and wings, streaked breasts, barred bellies and long yellow legs.

Regardless of the group, the Roadside Hawk is a relatively small raptor. It measures between 30 and 40 cm (12 and 16 inches) in length and has a wingspan of around 60 to 70 cm (24 to 28 inches). It weighs between 250–300 grams (8.8–10.6 oz). Male Roadside Hawks are usually smaller than females.