RECENT RECORDS OF HAWK-EAGLES (SPIZAETUS SPP.) IN NORTHWESTERN RIO GRANDE DO SUL, BRAZIL

Abstract

I have reported in this paper several observations with three Spizaetus hawk-eagles in the northwestern Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Two records are described for S. tyrannus, including one recent and another historical. As for S. melanoleucus, I describe 30 records, including 10 showing territorial behavior (one with mating displays), three for juveniles, four for diet or hunting behavior and seven interactions with other species of raptors. Finally, 27 records are reported for S. ornatus, including four for territorial behavior, 10 of juvenile or immatures birds, five for diet or hunting behavior and three interactions with other species of raptors. In the northwest of Rio Grande do Sul, S. tyrannus has recent observation only in Missões region, next to Ijuí River, while S. ornatus has recent records only in Turvo State Park. On the other hand, S. melanoleucus has been recent recorded in Turvo State Park, in Guarita Indigenous Land, in the Parizinho Corridor and in Entre-Ijuís, next to Ijuizinho River. Spizaetus hawk-eagles are regionally threatened and require attention to human disturbances, such as hunting, logging and habitat loss.