The Red-shouldered Hawk is a medium-sized forest hawk, easily recognized by its rufous barring on the breast and underparts. It is a vocal and adaptable raptor.
Where to spot
Eastern North America and along the California coast, inhabiting mature deciduous or mixed forests, often near water bodies.
How to spot
Look for its reddish-brown shoulders and breast, black-and-white barred wings, and a tail with narrow white bands. Listen for its piercing 'kee-aah' call, often repeated.
When to spot
Year-round in most of its range, active throughout the day. Calling is most frequent during the breeding season in spring.
Where to spot
Eastern North America and along the California coast, inhabiting mature deciduous or mixed forests, often near water bodies.
How to spot
Look for its reddish-brown shoulders and breast, black-and-white barred wings, and a tail with narrow white bands. Listen for its piercing 'kee-aah' call, often repeated.
When to spot
Year-round in most of its range, active throughout the day. Calling is most frequent during the breeding season in spring.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
This hawk is known for its distinctive 'kee-aah' call, which is often mimicked by Blue Jays, sometimes fooling birders into thinking a hawk is present.
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