It’s surely a unique experience to observe hawks conquering the sky with their strong wings.
As thrilling as hawk-watching can be, it doesn’t come without its challenges.
Identifying different species can be difficult even for the most experienced birdwatchers, especially since hawks are always on the move, making it hard to see them clearly.
Fortunately, there are certain features which help differentiate them. Here are 6 effective tips for spotting different hawk species.
1. Bird Shape In Air
Since you’ll mostly be observing hawks while they’re soaring in flight, it’s important to pay attention to every little detail, like the shape of their silhouette. This can be a key factor in identifying the hawk species you’re looking at.
For example, if you’re observing a Cooper’s Hawk, you’ll be able to recognise it by its unique “flying cross” shape. On the other hand, the Sharp-shimmer hawk looks like a “flying T”.
These simple associations are easy to remember and come in handy when trying to recognise hawk species from a distance.
Keep in mind, these shapes aren’t just random, they show the hawk’s flying style and body structure.
2. Wing Shape And Size
Another thing to pay close attention to are the shapes and sizes of their wings. These are one their most prominent features and tell us which hawk species they belong to.
Take the Accipiters, for instance. Their wings are usually rounded and slightly pointed, which helps them flow smoothly through the air.
On the other hand, Buteos have relatively straight and broad wings.
You can also easily recognise eagles just by the massive size of their wings. These allow them to carry some of the largest prey without any trouble.
Hawks’ wing shapes also reflect their hunting style and speed.
3. Tail Length And Shape
If you have trouble getting a good look at their wings, then try to keep an eye on the shape and length of the tails. Hawks’ tails are usually a clear indication of the species they belong to.
In fact, did you know that tails also indicate their various hunting patterns and styles?
When you notice a round and wide tail, that usually means it’s a Red-tailed Hawk in question. If the tail has a square edge, it could be a Cooper Hawk or Sharp-shinned Haws. Long and pointed tails belong to Swainson’s Hawks and Harris’s Hawks. While tails split into two sections represent Broad-winged Hawk.
This might sound overwhelming at first, but the more you explore and observe these birds, the easier you’ll differentiate them.
4. Feathers On The Wings
Another feature to pay close attention to are their wing feathers. Eagles, Buteos and accipiter are characterized by fringed feathers on their wings.
An easier way to identify them is by taking a look at your hand. If the wings resemble your fingers, that means either of these species.
On the other hand, falcons don’t have fringed feathers, which makes them easily recognisable among other species.
5. Manner Of Flight
The manner and style of a hawk’s flight can also help you identify the type of species you are looking at. Each of them has their significant movements, and if you pay close attention, you’ll easily be able to differentiate them.
For example, if you notice a bird flying in a bat-manner, there’s a good chance you’re looking at an American Kestrel. If the bird is powerful and fast, it might be a Merlin. Hawks that glide effortlessly through the wind are typically Kestrels.
Don’t worry if you don’t get it right on the first try: even the most experienced birdwatchers make mistakes from time to time.
6. Rump Patch
If you are able to notice a white rump patch, you’re definitely looking at a Northern Harrier. This feature is their most characteristic trait that makes them stand out from the crowd.
This white patch is striking enough to be noticed even from a far-off distance.
This is the easiest way to differentiate them from other species, as most of them don’t have such a prominent rump patch.