Red-tailed Hawk
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Rhododendrites" title="User:Rhododendrites">Rhododendrites</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameRed-tailed Hawk
Common NameRed-tailed Hawk
Scientific NameButeo jamaicensis
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)127
Length (cm)55
Weight (g)1100
Plumage DetailsAdult Red-tailed Hawks typically have dark brown upperparts, a pale underbelly with a variable dark belly band, and a rusty red tail. The head is brownish with a pale face, and the cere and legs are yellow. Juveniles have a brown-banded tail and more streaking on the underparts.
Vocalization / CallTheir most common call is a distinctive, high-pitched, rasping scream, often transcribed as 'kree-eee-ar' or 'kee-eeee-arrr', which can be heard while soaring or perched.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, woodland, grassland, desert, agricultural land, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across North America, ranging from Alaska and northern Canada south through the United States and Mexico, into Central America and the Caribbean.
Identifying FeaturesReddish-brown tail (adults), Dark patagial marks on the leading edge of the underwing, Dark belly band (variable), Broad, rounded wings, Soaring flight pattern
Description
The Red-tailed Hawk is a large, powerful raptor known for its broad wings and soaring flight. Adults are easily identified by their distinctive reddish-brown tail, while juveniles have banded tails. They are highly adaptable predators found across a wide range of habitats.
