Hawks are formidable birds of prey, recognized for their sharp talons and keen eyesight. While they are primarily known as active hunters of live prey, the question of whether they consume dead animals, or carrion, is a common one. Hawks are opportunistic feeders, and under certain circumstances, scavenging becomes a part of their diet.
Typical Hawk Prey
Hawks are skilled predators, using their exceptional vision to spot prey from considerable distances. Their diet largely consists of live animals, with many species primarily hunting small mammals like mice, rats, and squirrels. Some hawk species also frequently prey on birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. For instance, Cooper’s hawks often target songbirds, while red-tailed hawks commonly hunt rabbits and mice.
To capture their prey, hawks employ diverse hunting strategies. Many species, including red-tailed hawks, often watch from a high perch or soar in wide circles, then dive at impressive speeds to seize their target with powerful talons. Other methods include low soaring, hover-and-pounce techniques, or even aerial pursuit for birds. These hunting behaviors show their reliance on fresh kills.
When Hawks Consume Carrion
While hawks prefer to hunt their own food, they are opportunistic and will consume carrion, especially when live prey is scarce. This behavior is more common during harsh winters when small mammals may succumb to cold or lack of food. Eating carrion conserves energy, as hunting requires significant effort and is not always successful.
Hawks favor fresh carcasses over older, decomposed remains. They possess strong stomach acid and a robust immune system to reduce risks from decaying meat, often selecting fresher carrion and avoiding contaminated parts. The type of carrion consumed includes dead mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish, depending on what is available. For example, rough-legged hawks have been observed scavenging on waterfowl carcasses in winter when their usual rodent prey is scarce.
Identifying Hawks Versus Other Scavengers
Distinguishing hawks from other carrion-frequenting birds, particularly vultures, is possible by observing key features and behaviors. Vultures, such as turkey vultures, are obligate scavengers, meaning their diet is almost exclusively carrion, and they often locate it by smell. Unlike hawks, vultures have featherless heads, which is an adaptation to feeding on decaying flesh.
In flight, vultures often hold their wings in a V-shape, known as a dihedral, and wobble while soaring. Hawks, in contrast, fly with their wings held straight out and exhibit a more stable soaring pattern. Hawks are also smaller and lighter than vultures, and they flap their wings more frequently than vultures, which soar for longer periods with minimal flapping.