This beautiful hawk has become increasingly common in urbanized areas. It measures between 35 and 45 centimeters in length, the female being larger than the male. Predominantly dark in color, it has a brownish lower body and a white head, with a black mask quite characteristic of the species, framing its yellowish beak. Hunting close to the ground, looking for insects, reptiles, bats and birds. They usually hunt as a couple. It can be seen flying over or resting in the buildings of the Campus of Praia Vermelha.