The red-shouldered hawk (Buteo lineatus) is a medium-sized raptor known for its striking plumage and distinctive call.

A resident of forests and wooded wetlands across North America, this bird is a vital predator in its ecosystem, keeping small mammal and reptile populations in check.

Appearance and Identification

The red-shouldered hawk boasts a stunning appearance. Its upper body features a rich brown color with pale streaks, while the underparts display a vibrant reddish barring. The bird's wings and tail are marked with bold black-and-white bands, creating a striking contrast. True to its name, the shoulders exhibit a reddish hue, especially visible when the bird is perched or in flight.

Measuring 15-24 inches (38-61 cm) with a wingspan of 37-43 inches (94-110 cm), this hawk is slightly smaller than its relative, the red-tailed hawk.

Habitat and Range

Red-shouldered hawks prefer forests near water sources, such as rivers, swamps, or wetlands. Their range spans eastern and southeastern United States, with isolated populations in California and parts of Mexico. These hawks are year-round residents in most of their territory, though northern populations may migrate southward during colder months.

Diet and Hunting

An opportunistic predator, the red-shouldered hawk feeds on a variety of prey, including small mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and birds. It uses its keen eyesight to locate prey from perches or during slow glides. Once prey is spotted, the hawk swoops down with precision, capturing it with sharp talons.

During spring and summer, its diet may also include insects like grasshoppers or cicadas, showcasing its adaptability to seasonal food availability.

Behavior and Calls

Known for its piercing, repetitive call, often described as a loud "kee-aah," the red-shouldered hawk frequently vocalizes, especially during the breeding season. This call serves as a territorial warning to other birds and predators.

Red-shouldered hawks are highly territorial, particularly during nesting. They mate for life, with pairs returning to the same nesting sites annually. Nests are built high in trees and constructed from sticks, lined with softer materials like moss or leaves.

Breeding and Lifespan

Breeding season starts in winter last or spring first. Females lay 2-4 eggs, which hatch after about 33 days of incubation. Both parents actively participate in raising the chicks, feeding them until they fledge around six weeks of age. In the wild, these hawks can live up to 19 years.

Conservation and Importance

The red-shouldered hawk plays a crucial role in controlling rodent populations, maintaining ecological balance. Though populations are stable, habitat destruction poses a potential threat. Protecting forested areas ensures their survival and benefits biodiversity.

Lykkers, the red-shouldered hawk, with its striking beauty and sharp hunting skills, exemplifies the elegance and power of nature. As a guardian of the forests, its presence enriches the ecosystem and captivates all who encounter it.

10 Amazing Facts About Red Shouldered Hawks

Video by Photography Adventures By Gracie L