Red-tailed Hawk

About the Red-tailed Hawk

The Red-tailed Hawk is a large, broad-winged raptor commonly seen soaring over open fields, perched on utility poles, or circling high in the sky. Most adults show a distinctive reddish tail, especially visible in flight. With keen eyesight and powerful talons, this adaptable hunter thrives in a wide range of habitats across North America.

Fun Facts

• Signature Scream: The raspy, descending kee-eeeee-arr call often used in movies to represent any hawk actually belongs to the Red-tailed Hawk.
• Incredible Vision: They can spot small prey from hundreds of feet in the air.
• Wide Range: Red-tailed Hawks are one of the most widespread and adaptable raptors in North America.
• Color Variations: They come in several color morphs, ranging from light to very dark plumage.