between these two species difficult in the field. Flat wing length measurement has been reported as 360-380mm in males, and 390-410mm in females. Other reported measurements include a tail length of 178-222mm, tarsus length of 95.3mm, and culmen length from cere as 29-30mm. The juvenile is similar to the adult but the plumage is fairly spotted overall, with dark streaks on the white crown and nape which are visible at a distance. The upper wing coverts are fringed whitish and there are dark bars at the base of the tail which are more numerous and noticeable than in adults. The cere ranges from whitish to dull yellow. Habitat and distribution The mantled hawk has a small and patchy distribution within the Atlantic Forest of South America, but may generally occur at higher altitudes than similar species. It is endemic to lowland and montane forest fragments in eastern Brazil ranging from Alagoas and Bahia to Santa Catarina; southeast Paraguay in states such as Alto Paraná Department, Iguassu and Puerto Bertoni; and extreme northeast Argentina. It may also inhabit northern Uruguay. Within its humid forest habitat, this hawk especially favours foothills and the elevation of its habitat ranges from sea level to at least 1500m. Alongside continuous evergreen forest, it also appears to use edges, natural clearings and patches of dry trees along surrounding hills. Areas of secondary growth and extensive deforestation are also used, especially in association with Parana Pine. It is commonest in east Brazil, especially in the Parapiacaba fragment of the Atlantic Forest and rarer elsewhere, especially in east Uruguay and southeast Paraguay. It occurs at relatively low densities overall. Ecology Feeding Like many other hawks, the mantled hawk is a sit-and-wait predator. It rests on perches 5-7m aboveground in relatively exposed areas to give a clear view of potential prey in its surroundings for it to catch and ambush and these areas may include recently cleared patches of forest. It captures its prey after a short rapid flight from its perch, where it returns to eat it. Prey consists primarily of smaller birds such as tanagers, trogons, doves and rufous-sided crake. Other prey may include lizards, snakes and small rodents. Threats The population has become substantially reduced and fragmented through persistent deforestation of its habitat, particularly through exploitation of iron ore deposits. However, the threat from deforestation is considered to be less than for other hawk species such