Red-tailed Hawk

Buteo jamaicensis

These large hawks have very broad, rounded wings, and a short, wide tail—great for soaring high over open fields, on the lookout for rabbits and squirrels. They’re probably the most frequently seen raptor in North America, and are often soaring over the reserve. In flight, a dark strip along the leading edge of the wing identifies it as a Red-tail.

Fun Fact:
When any species of hawk or eagle appears in a movie, the shrill, raspy scream you hear is almost always a Red-tailed Hawk.

What’s for Lunch:
Small mammals like mice

Where’s Home:
Open areas in the reserve, year-round