Buteo jamaicensis
The Red-tailed Hawk is a robust raptor with broad, rounded wings and a short, wide tail. Its upperparts are dark brown, while the underparts are pale with a streaked belly band. The namesake red tail is visible in adults, appearing brick-red above.
Females are typically 25% larger than males but share similar plumage. Juveniles lack the red tail, instead showing a brown tail with narrow dark bands. Regional color variations exist, ranging from light to dark morphs.
Length
45cm to 65cm
Wingspan
110cm to 141cm
Weight
690g to 1.46kg
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Brown Red
Secondary Colour
White Black
Beak Colour
Yellow Grey
Leg Colour
Yellow
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Red-tailed Hawks inhabit a wide range of open and semi-open habitats, including woodlands, prairies, deserts, and urban areas. They are found across North and Central America, from Alaska to Panama.
In the United States and Canada, they are year-round residents in many areas. Northern populations tend to migrate south for winter, while those in temperate regions often remain in their territories throughout the year.
Sea level to 3,200 meters
Temperate, Subtropical, Tropical
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Red-tailed Hawk. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
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