Eagles and hawks are prominent birds of prey, captivating observers with their powerful presence. These raptors, characterized by sharp talons, hooked beaks, and keen eyesight, occupy similar ecological niches. Though they share many characteristics, distinct differences allow for their differentiation and reveal unique adaptations.
Physical Distinctions
A primary difference between eagles and hawks is their overall size and wingspan. Eagles are generally larger and heavier, with some species like the Bald Eagle boasting wingspans up to 7.5 feet and a robust build. In contrast, hawks present a more compact appearance, with generally smaller wingspans, though the largest hawk species, such as the Ferruginous Hawk, can exceed the size of smaller eagle species. Eagles often display broad, long wings that appear rigid and “plank-like” when soaring, contributing to a heavy, deliberate flight. Hawks exhibit more varied wing shapes, ranging from the broad, rounded wings of soaring Buteos to the shorter, rounded wings and elongated tails of Accipiters, designed for agile navigation.
Plumage patterns also offer clues, though they vary by species and age. Eagles exhibit more uniform adult plumage, such as the distinct white head and tail of the Bald Eagle or the golden nape of the Golden Eagle. Hawks, meanwhile, present a wider spectrum of coloration and patterns, including the notable “belly-band” seen on some Red-tailed Hawks.
The size and strength of their beaks and talons reflect their typical prey. Eagles generally possess larger, more massive beaks and talons relative to their body size, enabling them to handle substantial prey. Their grip strength can be significantly higher, with Bald and Golden Eagles estimated to exert up to 400 psi, compared to around 200 psi for a Red-tailed Hawk.
Behavioral and Habitat Clues
Flight style offers another way to distinguish these raptors. Eagles frequently soar at considerable altitudes, utilizing thermals with minimal wingbeats, and often hold their wings flat or in a slight dihedral (V-shape). This allows them to survey vast territories. Hawks display a broader range of flight behaviors; some species, like Accipiters, engage in rapid wingbeats for agile pursuits, while others, such as Buteos, exhibit slower, circular soaring at lower elevations.
Their hunting methods align with their physical capabilities and preferred prey. Eagles target larger vertebrate prey, including mammals, large fish, and other birds, often subduing animals over 50 cm in length. They may employ powerful dives to capture their quarry. Hawks employ diverse hunting strategies depending on the species, including ambushing smaller birds and mammals in forested areas or hovering in open fields to spot rodents.
Habitat preferences, while overlapping, also provide identification hints. Eagles favor expansive open landscapes, mountainous regions, or areas near large bodies of water, supporting their larger prey and providing ample soaring space. Hawks demonstrate greater adaptability and are found across a wider array of environments, including dense forests, grasslands, deserts, and urban settings. This reflects their diverse hunting styles and prey availability.
The Shared Family Tree
Despite their differences, eagles and hawks share a common biological heritage. Both belong to the family Accipitridae, which encompasses a wide variety of diurnal birds of prey. This family also includes kites, harriers, and Old World vultures. The term “eagle” is a common name applied to larger, more powerfully built birds within this family, rather than a strict scientific classification.
Hawks represent a more diverse and broadly defined group within Accipitridae, including many different genera and species. For instance, the Buteo genus includes the familiar Red-tailed Hawk, known for its broad wings and soaring flight. The Accipiter genus comprises species like the Cooper’s Hawk, characterized by shorter, rounded wings and longer tails, suited for maneuvering through wooded areas. Examples of eagles within this family include the Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) and the Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos).