Red-shouldered Hawk

What it is

The red-shouldered hawk (Buteo lineatus) is a medium-sized hawk. Its breeding range spans eastern North America and along the coast of California and northern to northeastern-central Mexico. Red-shouldered hawks are permanent residents throughout most of their range, though northern birds do migrate, mostly to central Mexico. The main conservation threat to the widespread species is deforestation.

Where and when to find it

Habitat

You can find them in forests near water, like swamps, rivers, or woodland edges, across the eastern US and parts of the West Coast.

How to find it

Listen for their distinctive 'kee-aahh' call, especially in spring. Look for them soaring high or perched on a tall tree branch, especially near water.

Best time of day

Daytime, particularly in the morning or late afternoon. Active year-round in many areas.

How it lives

What it eats

Small mammals, frogs, snakes, lizards, and sometimes insects or birds.

What eats it

Mainly larger owls or sometimes other larger hawks, mostly as young birds or eggs.

Worth knowing

• Their call is often copied by blue jays, which can make it tricky to find them!
• They build large stick nests high in trees.
• The 'red shoulder' color is more noticeable on adult birds.
• Red-shouldered Hawks can live for over 20 years in the wild.
• They are monogamous and often use the same nest year after year.
• They have excellent eyesight, allowing them to spot tiny prey from far above.

Why it matters

Red-shouldered Hawks help keep populations of small animals in check, which is good for the environment. They are top predators in their habitats.