Florida’s diverse ecosystems, ranging from dense forests to expansive wetlands and coastal areas, provide suitable habitats for a variety of hawk species. These birds of prey, known for their keen eyesight and hunting prowess, exhibit a fascinating array of adaptations.
Common Resident Hawks
Florida is home to several hawk species that can be observed year-round, with the Red-shouldered Hawk and the Red-tailed Hawk being among the most frequently sighted. The Red-shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus) is a medium-sized raptor, typically measuring between 17 and 24 inches in length. Its plumage features a brownish head, a pale striped reddish chest, and distinct black and white banding on its wings and tail. These hawks prefer habitats near water, such as pine, oak, and cypress forests, as well as deciduous swamps and bottomland hardwood forests. They are often heard before they are seen, emitting a loud, piercing “kee-aah” call, especially during mating season or when territorial.
The Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) is another common year-round resident in Florida and is generally larger than the Red-shouldered Hawk, typically ranging from 18 to 25 inches long. This hawk is characterized by its broad, rounded wings and a short, reddish-brown tail, which is a distinguishing feature in adults. Their bodies are typically brown on the back with a pale underside, often featuring a dark band across the stomach. Red-tailed Hawks are adaptable and can be found in various open country habitats, frequently seen soaring over fields or perched on poles and trees along roadways. Their vocalization is a hoarse, raspy scream, commonly heard while soaring.
The Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) is often grouped with true hawks due to its prominent presence and predatory nature in Florida. This raptor is easily recognized by its brown upper body, white underside, and a distinctive black stripe across its eyes. Ospreys are expert anglers, hovering above water before diving feet first to capture fish with their specialized talons. They construct large nests in tall trees, on utility poles, or on man-made platforms, often near coastal areas, lakes, and rivers. Their calls are typically high-pitched whistles and chirps, used for communication, especially during courtship or as an alarm.
Migratory and Less Common Hawks
Florida also hosts several hawk species that are either less commonly observed year-round or are significant migratory visitors. The Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus) is the smallest hawk found in Florida, typically ranging from 9 to 15 inches in length. Adults have bluish-gray backs and reddish-orange barred underparts, while juveniles are browner with vertical streaking. These agile hunters are primarily found in forests, ambushing smaller birds. Their short, rounded wings and long, squared tails are adaptations for navigating dense wooded areas.
The Cooper’s Hawk (Accipiter cooperii) is a medium-sized hawk, larger than the Sharp-shinned Hawk but similar in appearance. Adults display a bluish-gray back, often with a black cap, and pale orange barring on their underparts, along with red eyes. Their long, rounded tails and relatively short, rounded wings are characteristic of accipiters. Cooper’s Hawks are known for their diverse diet, preying on a wide range of bird species and small mammals. They inhabit wooded areas, from deep forests to suburban backyards.
The Broad-winged Hawk (Buteo platypterus) is another species that can be seen in Florida, particularly during its fall migration. These hawks are characterized by their dark brown upperparts and a pale whitish belly with horizontal bars. While some Broad-winged Hawks breed in northern Florida, many are migratory, traveling to Central and South America. They often gather in large flocks, known as “kettles,” during migration, soaring on thermal air currents. Their high-pitched whistle is a distinct vocalization.
Key Identification Characteristics
Identifying hawk species relies on physical attributes and behavioral patterns. Size is a primary indicator, ranging from the small Sharp-shinned Hawk to the larger Red-tailed Hawk. Relative body proportions, such as wing shape and tail length, also provide important clues. Accipiters, like the Sharp-shinned and Cooper’s Hawks, typically have shorter, rounded wings and long tails, which aid in maneuvering through forested areas. In contrast, buteos, such as the Red-tailed and Red-shouldered Hawks, generally possess broader wings and shorter tails, adapted for soaring in open skies.
Flight patterns are another distinguishing feature. Buteos are often seen soaring in wide circles on thermal updrafts, while accipiters typically exhibit a rapid series of wingbeats followed by short glides, especially when hunting within treelines. The shape of the tail, whether squared, rounded, or notched, can be particularly helpful, especially when observed in flight. For instance, the Cooper’s Hawk often displays a rounded tail, while the Sharp-shinned Hawk’s tail appears more squared.
Plumage patterns, including the presence of specific markings, banding on wings or tails, and overall coloration, are also significant. Juvenile hawks often have different plumage than adults. Vocalizations offer another reliable means of identification; for example, the Red-shouldered Hawk’s repetitive “kee-aah” differs distinctly from the Red-tailed Hawk’s raspy scream. Recognizing these combined characteristics aids in accurately identifying the diverse hawk species inhabiting Florida’s landscapes.