Red-tailed Hawk

birds of prey · North America · hunters · raptors

Super common hunter. The red-tailed hawk is one of the most frequently seen hawks across North America, found everywhere from Alaska to Panama. You might spot one perched on a telephone pole or circling high in the sky.

Lives almost anywhere. These adaptable birds thrive in deserts, grasslands, forests, farm fields, and even cities. The only places you won't find them are thick unbroken forests and the frozen high arctic.

Legally protected. Red-tailed hawks are safeguarded by special laws called the Migratory Bird Treaty in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. This means it's illegal to harm them.

Called chickenhawks. People sometimes call red-tailed hawks 'chickenhawks' along with two other hawk species, probably because they hunt small animals. Despite the name, they hunt many prey animals, not just chickens.

Cross the continent. Red-tailed hawks breed throughout most of North America, ranging from the western coasts all the way to the Caribbean islands.