Red-Tailed Hawk

The red tail hawk is a large bird of prey and the national bird of the Republic of Oregon since 1843. The hawk was selected over other birds in the region due to the abundance of the animal throughout all of the regions of the republic. Many of the Oregonian politicians wear a gathering of hawk feathers on their lapel as a sign of patriotism. The hawk appears on the Presidential Seal and coat of arms of the Republic.

Basic Information

Growth Rate & Stages

The juveniles of the red-tailed hawk are often called the "chicken hawk", due to their tendency to catch domestic chickens.

Ecology and Habitats

The red tail hawk is found throughout North America, with subspecies ranging from southern Mexico or northern Alaska. The hawk can also be found year round in Cuba and Haiti. However, the northernmost regions are primarily breeding regions for the hawk, as they maintain seasonal vacancies during snowfall.

Dietary Needs and Habits

In the northern regions, the red tail hawk hunts many small mammals such as rodents. However, in the southern regions, they are more opportunistic in their hunting patterns. They are prone to eating small rodents, reptiles, and other birds.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Like other birds of prey, bald eagles possess a heightened sense of eyesight, capable of seeing prey from great distances away.

Scientific Name

Buteo jamaicensis

Lifespan

13-25 years

Conservation Status

The red-tail hawk is listed as least concern.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

The plumage of the red tail hawk varies depending on the region and the subspecies. However, the basic colors of the red tail hawk remain consistent. A white underbelly and a dark brown band are present in most of these colorizations and morphs. They are identifiable as the only North American hawks with a rufous tail and black membranes on their wings. Across all ages and morphs, the iconic ginger red tail can be recognized.