Adult black caracara are a glossy black except for the distinctive white band on the base of the tail, and yellow to orange-red feet and face.
The adults appear similar to those of their closest relative, the red-throated caracara, however they have distinctly long and narrow wings and tail, as well as a black beak.
Additionally, the red-throated caracara can be distinguished from the black caracara by their red throats.
The average adult length is 41-47cm.
The females of this species average 350-440g and are typically larger than the males that have an average weight of 330g.

Juveniles can be identified by their dull black plumage, pale yellow face and the 3-4 black bars found on the rectrices.

When observing flight from a distance, it is notable that Daptrius ater rarely soars, but instead can be seen continuously flapping.
Adult black caracara are a glossy black except for the distinctive white band on the base of the tail, and yellow to orange-red feet and face. The adults appear similar to those of their closest relative, the red-throated caracara, however they have distinctly long and narrow wings and tail, as well as a black beak. Additionally, the red-throated caracara can be distinguished from the black caracara by their red throats. The average adult length is 41-47cm. The females of this species average 350-440g and are typically larger than the males that have an average weight of 330g. 
Juveniles can be identified by their dull black plumage, pale yellow face and the 3-4 black bars found on the rectrices.
When observing flight from a distance, it is notable that Daptrius ater rarely soars, but instead can be seen continuously flapping.
Black caracara