Where does the African Harrier-Hawk live?
Polyboroides typus
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Open the appThe African Harrier-Hawk lives in specific habitats and regions. Knowing where, and when, to look improves your chances of a successful sighting.
Biomes
Forests, woodlands, savannas, riparian zones, cultivated areas, and even urban environments with suitable trees.
Geographic range
Widespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Gambia east to Ethiopia and south to South Africa.
Preferred environments
Prefers areas with a mix of tall trees for nesting and roosting, and open areas or rocky outcrops for foraging. Often found near human habitation, especially where exotic trees like Eucalyptus or pines are present.
Elevation range
Sea level up to 3,000 meters, though most common below 2,000 meters.
Where to look
Woodlands and Savannas
Common in various wooded habitats, from dense forests to open savannas with scattered trees.
Riparian Zones
Often found along rivers and streams where tall trees provide nesting and roosting sites.
Cultivated Areas and Gardens
Adapts well to human-modified landscapes, including farmlands, plantations (especially oil palm), and large gardens with mature trees.
Rocky Outcrops and Cliffs
May nest and forage in areas with suitable rock formations, using crevices for prey extraction.
Field tips
- Look for unique foraging behavior. Watch for raptors actively probing into tree holes, under bark, or into bird nests. This behavior is highly characteristic of the African Harrier-Hawk.
- Scan tall trees and cliffs. They often perch conspicuously on tall trees or cliff edges, providing good viewing opportunities.
- Listen for calls. Their distinctive calls can often lead you to their location, especially during the breeding season.
- Check urban parks and gardens. In some areas, they are quite habituated to human presence and can be found in urban green spaces with mature trees.
Migration
Mostly resident throughout its range, with some local movements in response to food availability or breeding cycles. No significant long-distance migration.
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