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Broad-winged Hawk Identification

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The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    Broad-winged Hawks are small, compact raptors with chunky bodies and large heads. In flight, their broad wings come to a distinct point. The tail is short and square.

    Relative Size

    Slightly smaller than a Red-shouldered Hawk.

    Relative Sizebetween crow and goosebetween crow and goose

    Measurements
    • Both Sexes
      • Length: 13.4-17.3 in (34-44 cm)
      • Weight: 9.3-19.8 oz (265-560 g)
      • Wingspan: 31.9-39.4 in (81-100 cm)

Regional Differences

The rare dark morph of the Broad-winged Hawk is much more likely to be seen breeding in the western portion of its range and migrating through the eastern Great Plains and Texas. It is entirely sooty brown except for white bands in the tail.