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Red-tailed Hawk

(Buteo jamaicensis)

{Species Archive Index}

photo courtesy of BLM

Description:

The red-tailed hawk belongs to a category of birds known as birds of prey. A red-tailed hawk is a type of raptor within this category. They are typically dark brown above and lightly colored below with brown streaks across the chest. They generally have a a rusty-red tail. The red-tailed hawk has a short, dark, and hooked bill. They usually weigh about 2-3 pounds, range in length from 18-26 inches, and have a wingspan of 46-52 inches.

Identifiers:

Extreme variability in appearance can make identification of this hawk difficult (light and dark forms exist), but it is generally easy to identify in Florida by its rusty-colored tail.

Status:

Common in Florida.

Reproduction:

Red-tailed hawks nest in the spring, usually in the months of March and April. Males and females engage in elaborate aerial displays when courting, and then mate for life. In Florida, nests are located high in the forks of large trees. Females lay 1-3 eggs per clutch per year. After 28-35 days, the eggs hatch and young fledge at about 45 days old, thought they will often stay around the nest for several months.

Distribution:

Red-tailed hawks range throughout North America.

Habitat:

Although its preferred habitat is woodlands and open rangelands, red-tailed hawks are easily adaptable. They can occupy a wide range of habitats and altitudes, including deserts, rainforests, and urban areas. The red-tailed hawk is an aggressive bird and vigorously defends its territory, especially during the winter months when hunting is difficult and during the breeding season.

Diet:

Red-tailed hawks are carnivorous and primarily feed on small mammals. They also feed on smaller birds, insects, reptiles, snakes, and even fish.

Call:

Red-tailed hawks have a single high-pitched scream. They frequently vocalize while hunting, soaring, or in response to predator intrusion.

Fun Facts:

Red-tailed hawk screams are often used in movies and television commercials for the call of eagles and other hawks.
Female red-tailed hawks are larger than males.
Although capable of diving at extreme speeds, red-tailed hawks are more commonly seen perched on telephone poles looking for slight movements
in the grass that identifies prey.

Thank you to Assma Zekri for compiling information for this species.

{Species Archive Index}