Falcons and hawks are often admired birds of prey, yet their distinctions, particularly concerning size, can be a source of confusion. While both are formidable aerial predators, they belong to separate biological families, Falconidae for falcons and Accipitridae for hawks, which accounts for their differing characteristics. Understanding these differences provides insight into their unique adaptations and roles in natural ecosystems.
Understanding Size Differences
Size varies greatly among species within both groups, making a direct comparison complex. Generally, hawks tend to be larger than falcons. Hawks typically measure between 8 and 30 inches in length, while falcons usually range from 8 to 26 inches. This general trend means that many hawk species will indeed outweigh and outspan most falcon species.
Despite this general rule, exceptions exist where a large falcon can exceed the size of a smaller hawk. For instance, a Peregrine Falcon or a Gyrfalcon, among the largest falcons, can be bigger than smaller hawk species like the Sharp-shinned Hawk or Cooper’s Hawk. The Gyrfalcon, the largest falcon, can reach up to 26 inches and weigh over 4.5 pounds, with females being notably larger than males. In contrast, the smallest falcon, the Pygmy Falcon, measures around 7.9 inches.
Among hawks, the Red-tailed Hawk is a common, large species, often reaching up to 25 inches and weighing up to 3.5 pounds. The Ferruginous Hawk can be even heavier, sometimes reaching 4.5 pounds. This highlights that while a general size difference exists, comparing individual species is necessary for precise understanding. Females in both falcon and hawk species are consistently larger than their male counterparts, a phenomenon known as sexual dimorphism.
Physical Characteristics Beyond Size
Beyond size, falcons and hawks exhibit distinct physical features for identification. One noticeable difference lies in their wing structure. Falcons possess long, slender, pointed wings optimized for high-speed flight and agility, earning them the reputation as “longwings.”
Hawks, conversely, typically have broader, more rounded wings. These wings often display finger-like feather tips, which are well-suited for soaring on air currents and navigating through varied environments. Additionally, falcons generally have shorter, more rounded heads, sometimes described as bullet-shaped, while hawks often have comparatively larger or more pointed heads.
Their tail shapes also differ, with falcons generally having longer, straight-edged or narrower tails for precise control, while hawks often feature broader, fan-shaped tails that assist in steering during their characteristic soaring flight. Their beaks provide another distinguishing mark. Falcons are equipped with a “tomial tooth,” a sharp, triangular notch on the upper mandible of their hooked beak. This specialized adaptation allows falcons to quickly sever the spinal cord of their prey. Hawks, on the other hand, possess strong, curved beaks without this specific tomial tooth, relying more on their powerful talons to dispatch prey.
Distinct Hunting and Flight Styles
The specialized physical adaptations of falcons and hawks directly link to their unique hunting and flight behaviors, reflecting different ecological niches. Falcons are renowned for their incredible speed and direct flight paths. Their aerodynamic bodies and rapid wing beats enable remarkable velocities, particularly during hunting dives known as “stoops.” The Peregrine Falcon, for example, is the fastest animal on Earth during its hunting dive, reaching speeds over 200 miles per hour (389 kilometers per hour).
Hawks, in contrast, are masters of soaring flight. They typically flap their wings less frequently, utilizing rising air currents called thermals to glide in wide circles, conserving energy while scanning for prey. The Red-tailed Hawk often soars with its broad wings held in a slight dihedral, efficiently surveying open fields. This flight style allows them to cover large areas with minimal effort.
Their hunting strategies and preferred prey also differ significantly. Falcons predominantly hunt other birds in mid-flight, using their unparalleled speed and specialized tomial tooth to deliver a quick, fatal bite. Peregrine Falcons primarily target medium-sized birds, though they may also take small mammals, reptiles, or insects. Smaller falcons, like the American Kestrel, primarily feed on insects, small birds, and small mammals.
Hawks exhibit a more diverse diet and often employ a “perch and pounce” hunting technique. They typically observe from an elevated position, then swoop down to capture prey on the ground using their powerful talons. Their prey often includes a wide range of small mammals (rodents, rabbits, squirrels), as well as reptiles, amphibians, and occasionally other birds or fish. For example, the Red-tailed Hawk’s diet can consist of up to 85% small mammals. Cooper’s Hawks are known for hunting birds, sometimes frequenting backyard bird feeders.