Crested Eagle vs Black Hawk-Eagle

In short

The Crested Eagle and Black Hawk-Eagle can be distinguished by their plumage and flight silhouette. The Crested Eagle has a single pointed crest and barring below, while the Black Hawk-Eagle is blackish with narrow white barring and broad white bars on the flight feathers.

Identification tips

• Look for the single pointed crest on the Crested Eagle.
• Note the barring below on the Crested Eagle, absent in the Black Hawk-Eagle.
• Observe the broad, paddle-shaped wings and long tail of the Black Hawk-Eagle in flight.
• Listen for the sharp, whistled calls of the Black Hawk-Eagle.

Size

The Crested Eagle is generally larger and more robust than the Black Hawk-Eagle.

Plumage

Crested Eagle has a single pointed crest and barring below, with a pale morph showing gray head and reddish barring. Black Hawk-Eagle is blackish with narrow white barring below and broad white bars on the flight feathers.

Behaviour

Crested Eagle often soars over the canopy and is less likely to be seen perched. Black Hawk-Eagle frequently soars high overhead and is known for its sharp, whistled calls.

Habitat

Both species inhabit forested areas, but Crested Eagle is more often found in the Amazon basin and Atlantic coastal forests, while Black Hawk-Eagle is more widespread in Neotropical forests.

Voice

Black Hawk-Eagle is noted for its sharp, whistled calls, while Crested Eagle is generally quieter.