Red-tailed Hawk (Red-tail)

The Red-tailed Hawk is a robust, heavy-set raptor with broad, rounded wings and a short, wide tail. Adults typically feature a rich brown back, pale underparts with a streaked belly band, and the signature brick-red tail. They are masters of soaring, frequently spotted circling lazily over open fields or perched prominently on roadside utility poles.

Rich chocolate brown upper surface with subtle, darker brownish-black dark banding visible towards the tip, contrasting with a lighter grayish-white underside and a stout pale straw-colored rachis.

Tightly interlocked pennaceous barbs on the vane with strong barbicels, and a small patch of semiplume/downy barbs at the base of the calamus.

Stiff, smooth, and matte finish with firm, interlocking vanes that resist wind pressure during flight.

Rich brown upper vane, broad rounded tip, stout pale rachis, and subtle dark subterminal banding characteristic of Buteo wing feathers.

Extremely adaptable, found in deserts, scrublands, urban areas, lush woodlands, agricultural fields, and high mountain grasslands.

Widespread throughout North America, ranging from Alaska and northern Canada down through Central America and the Caribbean.

As apex avian predators, Red-tailed Hawks play a crucial role in regulating populations of small rodents, rabbits, and other small mammals, serving as vital indicators of ecosystem health.

Swainson's Hawk, Ferruginous Hawk, and Rough-legged Hawk. Distinguished by specific barring patterns, size, and geographic context.

Red-tailed Hawks have exceptional eyesight, capable of spotting a mouse from a height of 100 feet. Their iconic piercing scream is frequently used in Hollywood films to sound like any soaring eagle or hawk, regardless of whether a Red-tail is actually on screen.

Good condition. The vane is intact with minimal fraying, clean barbs, and no visible fault bars or sun bleaching.