Red-tailed hawks are a common sight across North America, often seen soaring overhead or perched on telephone poles. Many pet owners, particularly those with cats, express concern about these birds of prey. While the thought of a hawk preying on a beloved pet can be alarming, red-tailed hawks generally do not target adult cats.
Understanding Red-Tailed Hawk Diet
Red-tailed hawks are opportunistic predators with a diverse diet that varies depending on their location and the season. Their primary food sources include small mammals such as voles, rats, rabbits, and ground squirrels. They also consume various birds, up to the size of a pheasant, along with reptiles like snakes, and occasionally amphibians or insects.
These hawks typically hunt by watching from a high perch, such as a tree or utility pole, before swooping down to capture prey with their talons. They possess impressive eyesight, which allows them to spot small movements from a distance. Much of their hunting is done from elevated perches, conserving energy as they scan for prey.
Why Adult Cats Are Not Typical Prey
Adult cats are generally not typical prey for red-tailed hawks due to several biological and behavioral factors. A red-tailed hawk’s weight typically ranges from 1.5 to 3.75 pounds, with females being larger than males. While some sources suggest a large red-tailed hawk might be able to lift prey weighing up to 5 pounds, they rarely attempt to carry such heavy loads due to the significant energy expenditure required.
Considering that most adult cats weigh more than 5 pounds, they exceed the carrying capacity of a red-tailed hawk. Even if a hawk were to attack a larger cat on the ground, the cat’s defensive capabilities, including sharp claws and teeth, make it a formidable opponent. Such an encounter would pose a considerable risk to the hawk. Very small kittens or infirm cats, though rare, might face a higher risk due to their size and reduced defense.
Protecting Your Pets from Predation
Despite the low risk of red-tailed hawk predation on adult cats, pet owners can take general precautions to ensure their pets’ safety from various wildlife. Supervising outdoor time is a primary preventative measure, especially for smaller pets. Remaining visible can deter them, as birds generally move away when humans are nearby.
Providing covered outdoor enclosures, such as a “catio” for cats, offers a secure space for pets to enjoy the outdoors without direct exposure to predators. Removing potential attractants for prey animals, such as bird feeders or leftover pet food, can also reduce the presence of small mammals that might draw hawks to the area. For small pets, protective vests designed to prevent talon punctures are available, offering an additional layer of defense.