Red-tailed hawks, recognized by their broad wings and characteristic reddish-brown tail as adults, are a common and widespread raptor species across North America. These large birds of prey inhabit a diverse array of environments, ranging from deserts and grasslands to forests, agricultural fields, and even urban areas. They play an important ecological role by helping to regulate the populations of small mammals, such as rodents and rabbits, within their ecosystems.
Typical Lifespan
The lifespan of red-tailed hawks in the wild varies considerably; many do not survive past their first year. Those that endure average 6 to 7 years, though some live 10 to 15 years. The oldest known individual reached 21.5 years, with some reports exceeding 30 years.
In contrast, captive red-tailed hawks experience extended lifespans due to consistent food, predator protection, and veterinary care. They live for 20 years or more. The maximum recorded lifespan in captivity is 29.5 years, with some reports up to 35 years.
Environmental Influences on Longevity
A red-tailed hawk’s longevity is shaped by habitat quality and availability. Home range size (0.85 to 5.2 square kilometers) is influenced by food, perching, and nesting locations. Habitats with ample resources and safe nesting areas contribute to better survival and health.
Prey availability influences survival and reproductive success. Red-tailed hawks feed on small mammals like rodents, rabbits, and squirrels, and also birds, reptiles, and amphibians. An abundant prey base allows for healthier individuals and impacts clutch size.
Despite being apex predators, red-tailed hawks face threats, especially in early life. Eggs and nestlings are vulnerable to predation by great horned owls, crows, ravens, and raccoons. While adults have few natural predators, great horned owls, eagles, and goshawks prey on them.
Diseases and parasites pose a risk to health and survival. Red-tailed hawks suffer from infectious diseases like aspergillosis, tuberculosis, pasteurellosis, and West Nile Virus. Parasitic infestations, including feather lice and intestinal nematodes, can weaken birds, affecting their ability to fly, hunt, and absorb nutrients.
Human Impact on Lifespan
Human activities exert pressure on wild red-tailed hawk lifespan. Habitat loss and fragmentation, from urbanization and agricultural expansion, reduce hunting grounds and nesting sites. While adaptable raptors can adjust to urban environments, continuous development breaks up natural habitats, impacting their ability to thrive.
Exposure to toxins, especially pesticides, is a threat. Red-tailed hawks are vulnerable to secondary poisoning from consuming prey, like rodents, that ingested anticoagulant rodenticides. These poisons disrupt blood clotting, causing internal bleeding and death, and can remain in a hawk’s system for over 100 days. Agricultural pesticides, including organophosphates and carbamates, contribute to poisoning, causing disorientation, weight loss, and impaired defense mechanisms. Lead poisoning from consuming prey with lead shot is another concern.
Vehicle collisions are a frequent danger. Red-tailed hawks are susceptible to being struck by cars when hunting near roadsides or flying across highways. Accidents occur when hawks are focused on prey or misjudge traffic speed. Intentional or accidental shooting contributes to mortality rates.