Red-tailed Hawk

Redtail hawk

Red-tailed Hawk on a post.

BUTEOS

Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis)

  • Among the most common raptors in North America and a very popular falconry bird.
  • One of two raptors that apprentice falconers are permitted to possess and train.
  • Adults have red tails and immature birds have brown tails with black bars.
  • Only immature “passage” birds can be trapped during their first migration by falconers.
  • Versatile hunters that are extremely trainable with good dispositions. Can be trained to hunt in a variety of natural settings. Sometimes referred to as “old reliable” by falconers.
  • Excellent rabbit and squirrel hunters.
  • Hearty and able to tolerate cold climates.

Click for more information from theĀ Patuxent Bird Identification Infocenter.