Bird of the Week: Red-Tailed Hawk

This week’s featured bird is the first of Raptor Month and one of the most widely distributed and most common birds of prey in North America: the red-tailed hawk. Despite the distinctive rusty red tail, however, this bird of prey has a wide range of color morphs that can make identification a challenge even for experienced birders. Understanding the bird’s behavior, characteristic vocalizations and wing patterns can help make identification much easier.

Despite their familiarity, I’m always thrilled to see red-tailed hawks circling over fields, canyons and forests. While many birders may dismiss them as a common bird, any raptor as widely adaptable as a red-tailed hawk deserves attention. Furthermore, seeing birds of prey is a great sign that local habitats are superbly suitable, since these predatory birds cannot exist without good food sources – including healthy populations of smaller birds. For birders, a bird of prey is always a good sign.

Do you see many red-tailed hawks? Share your identification tips in the comments!

Red-Tailed Hawk
Photo © hart curt