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How to Identify Red-Tailed Hawks

Red-tailed hawks are the most common species of hawk in North America. These birds are found all throughout the Americas. A typical lifespan for these predators is 21 years. They are monogamous and may mate for life. Once you learn to identify them, you will often see them perched on high objects where they can scan for pray.

Instructions

- 1
  Look for the dark brown feathers on the upper part of the bird. The wings are also dark brown, with darker brown feathers at the tips and some white feathers mixed in intermittently. The upper part of the head is also a dark brown.
- 2
  Notice the underpart of the bird. The feathers are lighter, with streaks of brown feathers mixed in.
- 3
  Look at the tail of the bird. Red-tailed hawks have reddish brown tail feathers, with a dark brown strip near the end of the tail. The tips of the tail are streaked brown and white.
- 4
  Look at the legs of the bird. Red-tailed hawks have yellow legs and feet.

Animals & Science