Its breeding range extends from the Tierra del Fuego through Argentina and Chile to Bolivia, Paraguay, Peru and southern Brazil; and across the Andes north to Colombia.

The female's plumage is brown above, with a white rump, and cream coloured underneath, with a streaked belly similar to the males.

[4] This bird can be found in different open habitats, ranging from lowland marshes to the Andean Altiplano at a maximum altitude of 4000 meters (13123 ft).

[5] During the breeding season, males and females engage in large aerial courtship displays and chatter very loudly.

Its usual prey are small rodents and birds, notably chicks of coots and waders, reptiles, amphibians and insects.