The Red-tailed Hawk is North America's most familiar large hawk, recognized by its brick-red tail in adults. It hunts open country by soaring on broad wings or perching on fence posts and utility poles. Its raspy, descending scream is so iconic it is routinely dubbed over eagle footage in films.
Best time to see a Red-tailed Hawk
The best time to see a Red-tailed Hawk is August–February, when about 62% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 276,631 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Red-tailed Hawk? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Red-tailed Hawk sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Red-tailed Hawk?
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