Red-tailed Hawk (Red-tail)

The Red-tailed Hawk is a large, bulky raptor with broad, rounded wings and a short, wide tail that is typically brick-red in adults. Females are larger than males, a common trait in raptors. They soar in wide circles and perch conspicuously along highways and open fields scanning for prey.

Distinctive alternating horizontal bands of dark brown/charcoal grey and off-white or cream across the vane, set against a pale greyish-brown background. The rachis is white to pale cream near the base, darkening toward the tip on the upper surface.

Pennaceous structure on the upper vane with tightly interlocked barbicels; plumulaceous (fluffy) downy barbs present near the base of the calamus. Condition shows minor fraying at the tip.

Stiff and resilient vane structure with a smooth, matte finish. The leading edge is firm and aerodynamic, while the base features softer, downy barbs.

Bold dark and light horizontal banding across a broad, rounded feather vane, combined with a robust pale rachis and fluffy basal barbs, typical of a Buteo secondary flight feather.

Extremely adaptable, found in deserts, scrublands, urban areas, grasslands, agricultural fields, coniferous and deciduous woodlands, and tropical rainforests, typically from sea level up to 10,000 feet.

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

Apex avian predator that plays a crucial role in controlling rodent and small mammal populations, serving as a primary indicator of ecosystem health.

Other large North American raptors such as the Swainson's Hawk or Rough-legged Hawk, which can have similarly barred flight feathers but differ in precise banding ratios, coloration, and structural dimensions.

Red-tailed Hawks have exceptional eyesight, capable of spotting a mouse from a height of 100 feet. Their iconic screaming call is frequently used in Hollywood films to sound like any soaring eagle or hawk, regardless of whether the bird shown is actually a Red-tailed Hawk.

Good condition. Minor wear and slight fraying at the distal tip, but the barbs are mostly intact with no major structural damage or fault bars.