Red-shouldered Hawk

A medium-sized hawk known for its 'whistling' call and beautiful rufous-colored shoulders. The feather shows the bold banding that makes this bird easy to identify in flight from below, where it displays translucent 'crescents' near the wingtips.

Strong alternating bands of dark fuscous-brown and creamy white/pale tan. The banding is distinct and fairly sharp with some warm rufous wash near the edges, characteristic of the species' secondary feathers.

Primarily pennaceous with tightly interlocked barbs that form a firm wind-resistant surface for flight; base exhibits some plumulaceous (fluffy) downy structure near the superior umbilicus.

Smooth and firm surface area (vane) with a matte finish. Leading edge is slightly stiffer than the trailing edge to maintain aerodynamic stability.

Bold dark and light banding, warm brownish-red tones, and a relatively broad shape for a secondary feather.

Bottomland hardwood forests, flooded deciduous woodlands, and suburban areas with nearby woodlots and water sources.

Common across the eastern United States into southeastern Canada, with a separate population along the coast of California and northern Mexico.

Secondary predator; controls populations of small mammals, amphibians, and reptiles. Acts as an indicator species for forest health.

Red-tailed Hawk (generally lacks the sharp white banding on secondaries), Cooper's Hawk (narrower feather, different banding spacing), and Broad-winged Hawk (shorter, less distinct banding).

Unlike many hawks, Red-shouldered Hawks are very vocal during the breeding season and often return to the same nesting territory for many years.

Fair to Good; shows typical signs of natural wear and 'feather lice' damage (small holes/fractions in barbs). The calamus is intact, suggesting a natural molt.