Description

The Red Tailed Hawk is one of the more common birds of prey in this area. They can be seen soaring overhead in the thermals and updrafts or perching high up in a tree or on a building while searching for its next meal. These predators eat mice, small rabbits, lizards, insects, and smaller birds. The Hawk generally catches the prey with its large, sharp talons. I once saw a Red-Tailed Hawk fly full speed into a bush for a Quail. The Quail got away and it was quite the spectacle to watch. Crows often harrass and chase the Hawks when they enter the Crows territory. When mating, these birds perform an aerial display of repeatedly soaring high and diving.