Harris’s Hawk

BUTEOS

Harris’s Hawk (Parabuteo unicinctus)

Harris on the glove

Harris' Hawk on the glove

  • Genus Parabuteo
  • Medium-sized,dark colored raptor that looks like a miniature golden eagle.
  • Native to the Southwest U.S., Mexico, and Central American.
  • Relatively new to falconry.
  • Extremely popular falconry bird due to its trainability, hunting versatility, and excellent disposition.
  • Most Harris’ Hawks used in falconry are from captive bred parents.
  • Harris’ Hawks are unique in that they are quite social, living in family groups and hunting in packs in the wild . As a result, some falconers are able to hunt with these birds in socialized groups.
  • In flight and hunting style, Harris’ Hawks exhibit characteristics of both the buteos and accipiters.
  • Will hunt a large variety of mammals and birds.
  • In northern climates, Harris’ are suceptible to frostbite and must be protected from cold temperatures.

Click for more information from the Patuxent Bird Identification Infocenter