Red-tailed Hawk
Scientific name
Buteo jamaicensis
about the species
These hawks are named for the adults’ striking red-brown tail, but youngsters’ tails are banded with brown stripes. Although the red tail is a great way to identify some individuals of this species, also look for speckling on the belly (the “belly band”) and dark marks on the underside of the leading edge of the wing, close to the hawks body (“patagial marks”). These hawks are often seen soaring over Forest Park or sitting on the branches of large trees, looking for prey like squirrels, rabbits, and starlings. They build nests out of sticks high in trees. Old Red-tailed Hawk nests can be used for multiple years in a row, but other animals like Great Horned Owls can take over abandoned nests. Threats to Red-tailed Hawks include lead poisoning from eating carrion hunted with lead shot, rodenticide poisoning, collisions with vehicles, and electrocution on power lines. How can you help? Avoid using rodenticides (snap traps are a great alternative!) and, if you are a hunter, choose non-lead ammunition.
conservation status
Least concern. Commonly seen in Missouri
How we’re Studying this species
Forest Park is home to several Red-tailed Hawks! We are conducting bird surveys throughout the park to understand where and when birds like these hawks occur in the park. We have also put GPS tags on six Red-tailed Hawks in Forest Park, including a nesting pair!
