Red Shoulder Hawk

Red-shouldered hawks (Buteo lineatus) are striking raptors known for their vibrant plumage and distinctive calls. Found across North America, they thrive in woodlands, swamps, and suburban areas with mature trees. Their name comes from the rusty-red patches on their shoulders, complemented by dark wings with white barring and a banded tail. These medium-sized hawks, about 17-24 inches long, have a wingspan reaching up to 4 feet, making them agile hunters.
They primarily feed on small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and occasionally birds, swooping down from perches to snatch prey with sharp talons. Their piercing, whistling “kee-ah” call echoes through forests, often heard during courtship or territorial displays. Red-shouldered hawks are monogamous, building stick nests high in trees, where females lay 2-4 eggs annually.

Unlike some raptors, they adapt well to human presence, often nesting near suburban areas. However, habitat loss and pesticide use threaten their populations in some regions. Conservation efforts, like protecting wetlands and forests, are vital for their survival. We have a mated pair on our property that we see almost daily. They are keen hunters, and when we are cutting grass or clearing brush, they will hang out and wait for rabbits, rodents, and snakes to appear. They can scan an impressive landscape from their perches high in trees and on power poles. I have seen smaller birds chasing them off, which indicates they are not apex predators.