Buteo lineatus
The Red-shouldered Hawk is a striking medium-sized raptor, typically measuring 38-58 cm (15-23 in) in length with a wingspan of 99-127 cm (39-50 in) and weighing 500-950 g (1.1-2.1 lbs). Adults are easily identified by their rufous-red barring across the breast and belly, prominent black-and-white banded tail, and distinct translucent crescent patches near the wingtips, visible from below in flight. While the 'red shoulders' can be subtle, they contribute to the overall warm, reddish-brown pl...
Found primarily in moist, deciduous or mixed forests, often near water sources such as rivers, swamps, and wetlands, typically at low to mid-elevations.
Their diet is highly varied, consisting mainly of small mammals (e.g., rodents, shrews), amphibians (frogs, toads), and reptiles (snakes, lizards), supplemented by small birds and large insects. Primary foraging methods include perch-hunting and low-level aerial pursuit.
Red-shouldered Hawks are diurnal raptors that often spend hours perched quietly, surveying their surroundings, but are also active hunters and soaring birds. Foraging primarily involves a 'perch-and-pounce' strategy, where they watch intently from a high branch before swooping down on unsuspectin...
The Red-shouldered Hawk has a broad distribution across North America, primarily inhabiting two disjunct regions. Its main breeding range extends throughout eastern North America, from southern Canada (Ontario, Quebec) south through the eastern and central United States, including the Great Lakes...
Least Concern
- The Red-shouldered Hawk's distinctive 'kee-aah' call is frequently mimicked by the clever Blue Jay. - Unlike many Buteos that prefer open country, Red-shouldered Hawks are strongly associated with moist woodlands and swamps. - Adults can be identified in flight by the translucent 'crescents' ne...