Kites, Hawks, Eagles

Red-tailed Hawk, Buteo jamaicensis

Family Accipitridae (Kites, Hawks, Eagles)

Size: 20"

Season: Year-round

Habitat: Open country, prairies

This widespread species is the most common buteo in the United States. It has broad, rounded wings and a stout, hooked bill. Its plumage is highly variable depending on geographic location. In general, the underparts are light with darker streaking that forms a dark band across the belly. The upperparts are dark brown, and the tail is rufous. Light spotting occurs along the scapulars. In flight there is a noticeable dark patch along the inner leading edge of the underwing. Red-tailed hawks glide down from perches such as telephone poles and posts in open country to catch rodents, and they may also hover to spot prey. They are usually seen alone or in pairs. Their voice is the familiar keeer! The western adult is illustrated.