Uncommon to fairly common in the Andes, where its range does not overlap with closely related species to the north and south. Favors open habitats from puna plains to bleak desert and ski lodges, often with rocky cliffs nearby. Sails, soars, and tumbles easily on updrafts. Adult is strikingly patterned black-and-white with a black head and breast and a bold white tail tip. Juvenile is rather similar to smaller Chimango Caracara of lowlands, but distinguished by black (not pale) bill.