Hawks are common and successful birds of prey across Los Angeles County. The region’s varied landscape, including coastal areas, mountains, canyons, and urban sprawl, supports a surprising diversity of raptor life. This dynamic environment provides numerous hunting grounds and nesting sites, allowing several hawk species to thrive alongside millions of human inhabitants. The presence of these top avian predators indicates a functioning, highly adapted local ecosystem.
Identifying the Major Hawk Species of Los Angeles
The vast majority of hawks observed over Los Angeles belong to three prominent species. The Red-tailed Hawk is the most frequently sighted, easily recognized by its broad, rounded wings and the brick-red coloring on the top of its tail in adult birds. These large hawks often perch on utility poles or high branches, and their undersides typically show a dark band of streaking across the belly known as the “belly band.”
The Cooper’s Hawk is an agile, medium-sized bird specializing in pursuing avian prey through dense cover. Adults display a striking blue-gray back, a dark cap, and a chest barred with reddish-orange markings. Their long, rounded tail provides steering ability for navigating wooded areas and suburban yards.
The Red-shouldered Hawk is a smaller, often noisier species, identifiable by its distinct, repeated kee-aah call. This hawk has a finely barred chest and a rust-colored patch on its shoulders, typically favoring habitats near water sources.
Where to Find Hawks in Urban and Wild LA Habitats
Red-tailed Hawks are generalists, frequently seen in open areas like the San Fernando Valley, along freeways, and atop tall structures. They hunt over the slopes of the Santa Monica Mountains and canyons, scanning for rodents.
Cooper’s Hawks thrive in suburban settings, establishing territories in residential neighborhoods with mature trees and large parks. They are often seen darting between trees in backyards, reflecting their preference for cover.
Red-shouldered Hawks are strongly associated with riparian zones, concentrating near natural stream environments and dense, tree-lined waterways like the Arroyo Seco. Raptors also nest successfully on building ledges and freeway interchanges in downtown Los Angeles.
Understanding Urban Hawk Behavior and Coexistence
Urban hawks have altered their diets to capitalize on readily available city prey. Red-tailed Hawks predominantly hunt small mammals, including rats, mice, and squirrels, helping control the rodent population. Cooper’s Hawks primarily prey on smaller birds like pigeons and Mourning Doves, which are abundant in urban environments.
Raptors use large, sturdy trees for nesting, but they also utilize man-made structures like communication towers and high-rise building ledges. Hawks and all other raptors are protected under California state law; their nests cannot be disturbed, especially during the breeding season which begins as early as December. Residents should avoid using rodenticides, as these poisons can be ingested by hawks after consuming affected prey, leading to illness or death.