ercing scream that can be recognized by many. They have different sounds for when they are flying and soaring. Different noises they make may show anger, offer warnings, or protect their territory, based on the situation. The cry is so intense that it is often used as a sound effect in movies.
Red Tailed Hawks Have Amazing Eyesight
Red tailed hawks fly and search for their prey from the sky. Their eyesight is so advanced that they are able to see a small rodent on the ground, even when it is 100 feet below them.
Red Tailed Hawks Struggle to Make It to Adulthood
Almost half of all red tailed hawks do not live to the age of one in the wild. The ones that do survive will typically live to be about 12 years old. Red tailed hawks in captivity can live almost 30 years.
Red Tailed Hawks Are Protected by Law
Federal and state laws prohibit the public from possessing, killing or capturing red tailed hawks. The birds are not considered to be endangered, and these strict laws are thought to be the reason for this.
Red Tailed Hawks Are Important to the Ecosystem
Red tailed hawks are commonly found around farms because of the open landscape that generally surrounds them. They are considered to be an important part of the food chain in these areas because they keep the populations of small mammals, such as rabbits, mice and moles, in control so that crops and farms won’t be overrun.
Red Tailed Hawks Don’t Have to Eat Every Day
Red tailed hawks have a crop, which is a pouch located halfway between their mouth and stomach. Food is stored here and then released as needed for nutrients and energy. If a large enough meal is consumed, the bird may be able to go without eating for a day or two.
Females Are Larger than Males
Red tailed hawks follow the same physical guidelines as raptors, where the female is larger than the male. The male bird weights an average of 2.3 pounds with a length of 24 inches, while the female weights an average of 4.4 pounds with a length of 26 inches.
There Are Over 14 Species of Hawks
Including the red tailed hawk, there are about 14 recognized species throughout North America. They are most popular in the United States, and spend the winters in southern Canada. They can also be found farther south in Central America, and even as far as the West Indies.
Red Tailed Hawks Really Do Have Red Tails
Red tailed hawk facts show that they are covered with brown feathers, varying in shade, and have a red tail. They have yellow feet and legs, and a beak that starts as a white or yellow color and ends with a sharp black point.
The Great Horned Owl Is the Red Tailed Hawk’s Biggest Foe
Red tailed hawks do not have many predators but they do compete with the great horned owl. The owl is larger, and will attack red tailed hawks to either take their food or their nests. The owls typically live in the same areas as the hawk.
Red Tailed Hawk Facts – Facts about Red Tailed Hawks Summary
Red tailed hawk facts show that this bird is built for hunting, and preys on whatever small animals exist near its habitat, which varies. Red tailed hawks are able to adapt to many different environments. They have incredible flying abilities and use this to attract mates to raise their young with, since they stay with one partner for life. The females are larger than the males but they both share similar physical characteristics.