Red-shouldered Hawk

The Red-shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus) is a medium-sized raptor, a member of the genus Buteo, known for its striking plumage and distinctive presence in the forests of North America. Males typically range from 38 to 58 cm in length and weigh around 550 g, while females are slightly larger, measuring 47 to 61 cm and averaging 700 g in weight. The wingspan of this species can extend from 90 to 127 cm. Adults are characterized by their brownish heads, reddish chests, and pale bellies with reddish bars. Their long tails, marked with narrow white bars, and the red patches on their shoulders are particularly noticeable when perched. The upper parts are dark with pale spots, and they possess long yellow legs.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Red-shouldered Hawk, look for the long tail and the unique pattern of barring on the wings and tail. The red shoulders are a key feature, visible when the bird is perched. Juveniles can be distinguished from similar species by their long tails and crescent-like wing markings. In flight, they exhibit a more flapping, Accipiter-like style.

Habitat

This species thrives in forested habitats, particularly favoring bottomland hardwoods, deciduous swamps, and mixed forests with an open subcanopy. They are also found in riparian and oak woodlands, as well as in some suburban areas where woodlands are interspersed with human structures.

Distribution

The Red-shouldered Hawk's breeding range spans eastern North America, the coast of California, and northern to northeastern-central Mexico. Northern populations may migrate to central Mexico, while others remain permanent residents within their range.

Behaviour

These hawks are solitary migrants, often traveling alone, although they may occasionally form small flocks. They are known to follow leading lines such as ridges and coastlines during migration. In their habitat, they are adaptable and can utilize human-altered landscapes effectively.

Song & Calls

The Red-shouldered Hawk is vocal, especially during courtship and territorial defense, with a distinctive, screaming "kee-aah" call that is usually repeated several times.

Breeding

Monogamous and territorial, Red-shouldered Hawks engage in soaring courtship displays and the male may perform a "sky-dance" as part of the ritual. They build stick nests in large trees, often reusing and refurbishing the same nest annually. Clutch sizes typically consist of three to four eggs, with an incubation period ranging from 28 to 33 days.

Similar Species

Juvenile Red-shouldered Hawks are often confused with juvenile Broad-winged Hawks but can be differentiated by their longer tails and flight style. They may also be mistaken for the larger and bulkier Red-tailed Hawk, which has broader wings and a paler underside.

Diet and Feeding

These hawks primarily prey on small mammals like rodents, but their diet can also include amphibians, reptiles, birds, fish, and large insects. They hunt by perching on treetops or soaring over woodlands before dropping onto their prey.

Conservation status

The Red-shouldered Hawk is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. While their populations have stabilized due to forest regrowth and hunting bans, they still face threats from habitat loss, human activity, and environmental contaminants such as insecticides and pollutants.