Eagles and hawks are prominent birds of prey, often observed in the skies. Both belong to the family Accipitridae, sharing characteristics like keen eyesight, hooked bills, and strong talons for hunting. While they share similarities, distinguishing between them can be challenging, especially from a distance. This article examines their key differences, starting with their physical dimensions.
Size Comparison: Eagles vs. Hawks
Eagles are generally larger than hawks across most species. An average eagle measures between 27.6 to 38 inches in body length, with wingspans ranging from 5.5 to 8 feet, and weighs 6 to 15 pounds. Hawks are smaller, with body lengths often between 14 to 26 inches, wingspans typically 2 to 4.5 feet, and weights from under 1 pound to about 4 pounds. While eagles are broadly larger, some overlap exists; for instance, the Ferruginous Hawk, a large North American hawk, can approach the size of a smaller eagle.
Distinguishing Features Beyond Size
Beyond their general size, eagles and hawks display several physical and behavioral distinctions. Eagles tend to have a stockier build with broader, more “plank-like” wings that they often hold flat or in a slight V-shape (dihedral) while soaring. This allows them to glide efficiently at higher altitudes, covering vast territories with minimal wingbeats. Hawks, especially those in the Buteo genus like the Red-tailed Hawk, also have broad wings but may exhibit a more rounded shape and often soar with their wings held in a more pronounced dihedral.
Flight patterns also differ; eagles are known for their deliberate, deep wingbeats and extended periods of soaring, reflecting their energy-efficient hunting style. Hawks, particularly the Accipiter species like the Cooper’s Hawk, often employ a “flap-flap-glide” flight, characterized by rapid wingbeats followed by short glides, enabling agile maneuvering through dense woodlands.
Eagles possess larger, more robust beaks and powerful talons, designed for capturing and subduing larger prey. Hawk beaks are proportionally smaller, and their talons, while sharp, are adapted for smaller prey, aligning with their typical diet of rodents and smaller birds.
Common Examples and Their Scale
Specific species demonstrate the scale differences. The Bald Eagle, a prominent North American eagle, measures 28 to 38 inches in length with a wingspan of 5.5 to 8 feet, weighing 6 to 15 pounds. The Golden Eagle is similarly large, with lengths of 27.6 to 33.1 inches and wingspans up to 7 feet, weighing 6.4 to 13.2 pounds. These eagles are built for power and capturing substantial prey. In contrast, common hawk species like the Red-tailed Hawk typically measure 17.7 to 25.6 inches in length with wingspans of 3.5 to 4.8 feet, weighing 1.5 to 4.4 pounds. The Cooper’s Hawk, a woodland species, is smaller, with lengths ranging from 14 to 18 inches and wingspans of 24 to 35.4 inches, weighing between 7.8 ounces and 1.5 pounds.