The Parabuteo unicinctus, commonly known as the Zone-tailed Hawk, is a medium-sized bird of prey found primarily in the Americas. It is characterized by its dark plumage, distinctive banded tail, and yellow eyes. This hawk typically inhabits open woodlands, grasslands, and scrub areas, where it hunts for small mammals, birds, and reptiles. Zone-tailed Hawks are known for their unique hunting strategy, often mimicking the flight patterns of Turkey Vultures to approach their prey unnoticed. They are skilled fliers and can soar gracefully while searching for food. Their breeding season usually occurs in spring, with nests built in trees or cliffs.