General

Hawaiian Hawk: Also called 'Io, the Light morph is dark brown above and cream below with brown flecks on the upperbreast. Dark morph is dark-brown overall with variably gray and brown tinge along underparts. Black bill with yellow cere. Sexes are similar, female is larger. Juvenile light morph has white-buff crown and nape, fewer brown flecks on breast. Juvenile dark morph is dark-brown overall, head and upperback are gray-brown, underparts show variable white tint. Cere, legs, and feet are blue-green.

Range and Habitat

Hawaiian Hawk: Endemic and widespread on the island of Hawaii and travels between sea level to tree line near Hilo. Regularly seen near volcanoes and along the Hamakua Coast.

Breeding and Nesting

Hawaiian Hawk: One to three light blue eggs are laid in a nest of twigs, sticks and leaves high in a tree. Incubated by female for 38 days. Both parents aggressively defend the nest and feed the young.

Foraging and Feeding

Hawaiian Hawk: Feeds on rats, small birds, stream animals and a variety of insects. Will either dive on prey from the air or hunt from a perched position.

Vocalization

Hawaiian Hawk: Call is a high pitched scream "eeeee-oh" and a series of piercing "keeee-up" often repeated.

Similar Species

Hawaiian Hawk: Not likely to be confused with any other species.