Birds of South Puget Sound: Red-tailed Hawk

General Description

Red-tailed Hawks, especially in the West, have highly variable plumage, including dark and rufous phases. They have long, broad wings and short, wide tails. Most have light breasts and dark streaks forming a mottled 'belly-band.' Most have dark brown heads. The underwings are mottled dark and light. All plumages of Red-tailed Hawks have a darkish band on the leading edges of the inner underwings, known as the 'patagial' markings. The upper side of the tail of most adult birds is deep rufous, although the Harlan's Red-tailed Hawk, a subspecies occasionally seen in Washington, has a light gray or banded tail. Light birds often have a faint white 'V' on their back-feathers that can be seen when they are perched. Juveniles lack the red tail.

Red-tailed Hawks are Common in Western Washington year round.

Habitat

Red-tailed Hawks are found in almost every type of habitat, as long as there are open areas interspersed with patches of trees or other elevated perches. They can often be seen perched in trees or on poles near open fields or agricultural areas, and along roads.

Behavior

Red-tailed Hawks are adapted for soaring and will spend long periods riding thermals, looking for prey or migrating. They also use a sit-and-wait style of hunting, scanning for prey from high perches. They are commonly seen along roadsides or soaring over open fields.