Red-tailed hawks are compact and stocky, with broad, rounded wings and a long tail. They typically measure 18-26 inches in length and have a wingspan of 42-52 inches. Females are typically larger than males, with an average weight of 2-3 pounds, compared to 1.5-2 pounds for males. Red-tailed hawks have a dark brown upper body, a lighter brown head and neck, and a cream-colored chest and belly. They have a white tail with a dark red band near the tip, which is the source of their name. Their eyes are yellow or orange-red, and their beak is black.