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Galapagos HawkHawks in Galapagos (Buteo galapagoensis) are the major native predators of most islands in Galapagos. It is also an endemic species. This buzzard-like bird will feed on lava lizards, snakes, young marine iguanas, chicks of sea birds, and other small vertebrates. It is also common to see sub-adults and juveniles acting like scavengers.
Not all islands of the Galapagos group have them, but common encounters occur in the islands of Española, Santiago Santa Fe, Isabela and Fernandina This type of mating scheme is rare among birds. The breeding cooperation exists between a female and up to three (sometimes 8) males within the same territory:
The Galapagos hawk has the same genus as the hawks found in Europe, America and Asia, but the interesting fact is that since these hawks evolved alone in the Galapagos Islands, they are tamer than its relatives in other continents. As they become adults, Galapagos island Hawk's plumage changes into a full dark brown color. Aerial displays of adults and young individuals show incredible air maneuvers. Hawks in Galapagos nest in trees, and the nests are quite big, as they are reused with new twigs added at each breeding attempt. Up to three young may be raised at a time. Since this hawk practices cooperative polyandry, as many as eight males may mate with a single female. Its plumage varies in color from white and brown to a bright yellow and black. Hawks in Galapagos are the major native predators. The Galapagos Hawk hunts a wide range of Galapagos animals which can include lava lizards doves, snakes, grasshoppers, iguanas and also some Galapagos sea birds The hawks in Galapagos are scavengers that feed on almost every dead animal as well. These animals could be: dead fur seals, sea lions, marine iguanas, goats, etc. As we said before, the Galapagos hawk is not afraid of humans and sometimes you can see it very close to you. More About Galapagos:Galapagos CrabsGalapagos Cactus Recommended Galapagos Island Tours Cheap Air Flights to Galapagos Best Hotel in Galapagos Galapagos Recommended Reading:A Guide to the Birds of the Galapagos IslandsIt offers unprecedented comprehensive coverage. This field guide presents every species to have been recorded within the archipelago, including accidentals and vagrants. (Highly recommended). An Identification Guide to the Birds, Mammals, and Reptiles of the Galpagos Islands This is the first comprehensive guide to the unique wildlife of the Galapagos, encompassing the birds, mammals, and reptiles a visitor to these extraordinary islands might encounter. (Also a very good book!) Click here to Visit the Galapagos Islands Store If you are planning on visiting the Galapagos Islands make sure you take a look at our recommended Galapagos Cruises
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