The Classification of the Red-Tailed Hawk

The red-tailed hawk is the most common hawk in North America. These large birds have keen eyesight and are efficient hunters. They have a colorful tail, and range in size from 18 to 26 inches with a wing span of 38 to 43 inches.

  1. Specifications

    • The red-tailed hawk belongs to the Accipitridae family, which also includes the eagle, other hawks and Old World vultures. Buteo is the genus or species of the red-tailed hawk, which are generally medium- to large-sized hawks. Scientifically, the red-tailed hawk is of the Aves class, falconiformes order and of the jamaicensis species.

    Characteristics

    • With a wingspan up to 4 feet, this hawk weighs about 2 to 4 lbs. They are stocky birds with brown plumage on their backs and lighter colors on the breasts. Their fan tails are red, giving them their name.

    Life Span/Habitat

    • The red-tailed hawk lives in forests, prairies and deserts but is commonly seen on wires and telephone poles in open spaces looking for prey. Their lifespan can be up to 21 years in the wild and up to 29 years in captivity.