Chilean Eagle-buzzard
Eagles, Kites & Vultures
Chilean Eagle-buzzard
Geranoaetus melanoleucus
This large raptor, despite its size, is not a true eagle and is actually part of the buzzard family and is known to be the largest of that group.
As its name suggests, these birds live in hilly, open regions of South America and prey mostly on small mammals such as rabbits and skunks and will on occasion compete with scavenging vultures and condors for carrion.
The Chilean Eagle-buzzard goes through a dramatic colour change when it reaches maturity; moulting its brownish feathers and replacing them with a blue-grey plumage.
