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Red-tailed Hawk

Buteo jamaicensis

Quick Facts

Scientific name: Buteo jamaicensis
Class: Bird
Weight: 1 to 3 pounds
Life span: 10 to 20 years
Conservation status: Least concern
Number of offspring: 2 to 3 eggs at a time

About

I LIVE IN NORTH AMERICA

The red-tailed hawk is native to North America, more specifically Canada and the United States. They can be found soaring through the open country and wooded areas, often perching on top of trees to rest.


I AM A CARNIVORE

This hawk species has a varied diet ranging from small mammals, such as rats, rabbits, and squirrels, to birds and reptiles. Their diet changes based on where they live in North America and what season it is.


RED-TAILED HAWKS ARE SOLITARY

Red-tailed hawks are generally a very solitary bird species, however, they are monogamous animals and do mate for life.


A FAMILIAR CALL

If you have ever heard the majestic sound of a bald eagle as it is portrayed in film and television, you are actually witnessing the call of a red-tailed hawk!


HELPING THE RED-TAILED HAWK IN THE WILD

By visiting the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, you are supporting local, regional, and global conservation. A portion of every ticket sold goes towards conservation of wildlife and wild places. Each year, the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo donates over $250,000 to our conservation partners


I AM IMPORTANT TO MY ECOSYSTEM

As a predator within their ecosystem, the red-tailed hawk plays a very important role in controlling small mammal populations.


Conservation

Learn more about our efforts, our conservation partners around the world, and the simple steps you can take to contribute.

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