Grey Hawk vs Broad-winged Hawk

In short

The Grey Hawk (Buteo plagiatus) and Broad-winged Hawk (Buteo platypterus) can be differentiated by the Grey Hawk's distinctive white 'U' shape on the dorsal surface at the base of the tail, visible in both adults and juveniles. The Broad-winged Hawk lacks this feature but has broader wings and a more compact shape.

Identification tips

• Look for the white 'U' shape on the base of the tail in Grey Hawks.
• Observe the flight pattern: Grey Hawks have rapid wing beats and glides, unlike the soaring Broad-winged Hawk.
• Check the tail banding: Grey Hawks have multiple narrow bands, while Broad-winged Hawks have fewer, broader bands.
• Consider the habitat: Grey Hawks are more likely in open areas, Broad-winged Hawks in dense forests.

Size

Grey Hawk is medium-sized with a longer tail and narrower wings compared to the more compact Broad-winged Hawk.

Plumage

Grey Hawk adults have medium gray upperparts with finely barred gray and white undersides, while Broad-winged Hawks show more uniform brown plumage with a distinctive broad tail banding. Juvenile Grey Hawks have dark streaking on buff underparts, whereas juvenile Broad-winged Hawks are more uniformly brown.

Behaviour

Grey Hawks exhibit an accipiter-like flight pattern with rapid beats followed by glides, while Broad-winged Hawks have a more typical buteo soaring flight.

Habitat

Grey Hawks are typically found in open woodlands and forest edges, while Broad-winged Hawks prefer deciduous forests and are often seen during migration.