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Red-tailed Hawk
(Buteo jamaicensis)
Photo by Paris Trail
Seasons in Walnut Creek: Summers north, winters in south; also found locally year round
The Red-tailed Hawk is North America's most common hawk. They can be spotted in open areas such as fields, pastures, desert and parks-but can also be found in some forests as long as they have an elevated perch such as a dead tree or fence. Red-shouldered hawks are common wetland predators, but Red-tailed Hawks are also often seen near Walnut Creek. These are birds of prey and will catch and eat small mammals, birds, and reptiles.
Key Field Marks:
- Tail feathers are broad and red
- Pale chest with dark band around belly
- Large bird with females even larger
- Dark brown all over body
- 114-133 cm wingspan
Key Behaviors:
- Perches high up in dead trees waiting for prey
- Can hover in strong wind
- Nest consists of sticks, bark and twigs and can be seen high up in trees or on cliff ledges
- Call has a raspy and scraping sound ("Kree-eee-ar") this one is the Red-shouldered hawk, the Red-tailed Hawks sounds like Keeeer
Habit and Range:
- Open areas with elevated perches
- Common throughout North Carolina and North America
- Common in wetlands because of prey and lots of trees
Walnut Creek Sighting: Found near Walnut Creek in late September; identified by call.
Photo by permission of E. Parisher
Photo by permission of E. Parisher
This page prepared by 8th grader Henry S.
Exploris Middle School - Fall 2008
