Unlike most raptor species, the Harris's Hawk is an extremely social bird and though it can be seen by itself or with another hawk, it often hangs out in small family groups. Its broad wings and tail make it ideally adapted to soaring over the desert skies of its home. This diurnal, non-migratory raptor also can be seen soaring quite often. Almost unmistakable, it can be seen perching low in trees, shrubs, or at times even on the ground. It has a broad, wide stripe at the base of its tail. What they doįormerly known as the 'Bay-winged Hawk,' 'Dusky Hawk,' and 'One-banded Buzzard,' the Harris's Hawk is a stunning raptor with a dark chestnut back and chest that contrast with its bright rusty-colored thighs and wing patches. This hawk is generally found in lowlands and middle elevation habitats. Its desert home in Arizona is dominated by saguaro cactus and palo verde and mesquite trees. Instead, it prefers desert, arid scrub and savanna, agricultural lands, and even marshy open country with scattered trees and patches of woodlands. The species' range continues south from there into Mexico, through Central America, and into parts of South America.ĭespite its presence in some countries that have large tracts of tropical forest, the Harris's Hawk is generally not a tropical forest species. Its northern limit is the southwestern United States, including portions of Arizona, New Mexico, and Kansas and south-central Texas. The Harris's Hawk is found throughout much of the Americas. We also supply literature to researchers from our avian research library, which helps scientists the world over gather and share important information on raptor conservation. Though The Peregrine Fund does not work directly with Harris's Hawks, our efforts in scientific research, habitat conservation, education, and community development help conserve raptors around the world.

Hawks predators