The Four Keys to ID
- Size & Shape
Red-shouldered Hawks are medium-sized, with broad, rounded wings and medium-length tails that they fan out when soaring. In flight, they often glide or soar with their wingtips pushed slightly forward, imparting a distinctive, “reaching” posture.
Relative Size
Noticeably smaller than a Red-tailed Hawk; larger than a Broad-winged Hawk.
between crow and gooseMeasurements
- Both Sexes
- Length: 16.9-24.0 in (43-61 cm)
- Weight: 17.1-27.3 oz (486-774 g)
- Wingspan: 37.0-43.7 in (94-111 cm)
- Color Pattern
- Behavior
- Habitat
Regional Differences
Red-shouldered Hawks in the Northeast tend to be brownish overall. Florida birds have very pale, grayish heads, while those in California are very richly colored with a rusty head.