Large raptor of dry open country; light morph much more common than dark morph. Light adult distinctly rufous above with blue-gray flight feathers, white breast, and rufous barring on sides. Tail very pale with light rufous upperside. Light juvenile lacks rufous tones of adult but still shows pale tail and clean white breast. Dark morph rich brown overall with pale tail and white undersides on flight feathers. Wings show a dihedral or V-shape when soaring; wings rather long. Usually seen singly. Feeds on rodents.