Discover The Different Types Of Hawks In Louisiana In 2023

Juni 04, 2024 Posting Komentar

Welcome to Louisiana, the Pelican State, which is known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. The state is home to various species of hawks, which are birds of prey that belong to the genus Buteo. In this article, we will delve into the different types of hawks that are found in Louisiana in 2023.

The Red-Tailed Hawk

The Red-Tailed Hawk is one of the most common hawks in Louisiana. It is a medium-sized bird of prey that measures between 18 to 26 inches in length and has a wingspan of up to 56 inches. The Red-Tailed Hawk is named after its distinctive rust-colored tail, which is visible during flight. These hawks are mostly found in open areas such as farmland, grasslands, and deserts. They are carnivorous and feed on small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

The Cooper's Hawk

The Cooper's Hawk is a medium-sized hawk that measures between 14 to 20 inches in length and has a wingspan of up to 36 inches. This hawk is known for its striking plumage, which includes a blue-gray back, reddish breast, and white underparts with fine gray bars. The Cooper's Hawk is an ambush predator, which means it hunts by surprise. These hawks are mostly found in wooded areas and feed on small birds, mammals, and reptiles.

The Sharp-Shinned Hawk

The Sharp-Shinned Hawk is a small-sized hawk that measures between 10 to 14 inches in length and has a wingspan of up to 22 inches. This hawk is similar in appearance to the Cooper's Hawk but is smaller in size. The Sharp-Shinned Hawk has a blue-gray back, reddish breast, and white underparts with fine gray bars. These hawks are mostly found in wooded areas and feed on small birds, mammals, and reptiles.

The Northern Harrier

The Northern Harrier is a medium-sized hawk that measures between 18 to 20 inches in length and has a wingspan of up to 48 inches. This hawk is also known as the Marsh Hawk because it is mostly found in wetland areas such as marshes and swamps. The Northern Harrier has a distinctive facial disk that helps it locate prey. These hawks are carnivorous and feed on small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

The Broad-Winged Hawk

The Broad-Winged Hawk is a medium-sized hawk that measures between 13 to 17 inches in length and has a wingspan of up to 34 inches. This hawk is known for its broad wings and short tail. The Broad-Winged Hawk is mostly found in deciduous forests and feeds on small mammals, birds, and reptiles. These hawks are migratory and travel long distances to their breeding grounds in South America.

The Bald Eagle

The Bald Eagle is a large-sized hawk that measures between 28 to 40 inches in length and has a wingspan of up to 80 inches. This hawk is known for its distinctive white head and tail feathers. The Bald Eagle is mostly found near large bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, and coasts. These hawks are carnivorous and feed on fish, small mammals, and birds.

The Osprey

The Osprey is a medium-sized hawk that measures between 21 to 24 inches in length and has a wingspan of up to 72 inches. This hawk is also known as the fish hawk because it is mostly found near large bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, and coasts. The Osprey has a distinctive white head and dark brown back. These hawks are carnivorous and feed on fish.

The Mississippi Kite

The Mississippi Kite is a medium-sized hawk that measures between 12 to 15 inches in length and has a wingspan of up to 36 inches. This hawk is known for its graceful flight and distinctive shape. The Mississippi Kite is mostly found in open areas such as grasslands and deserts. These hawks are carnivorous and feed on insects and small mammals.

The Swainson's Hawk

The Swainson's Hawk is a medium-sized hawk that measures between 18 to 22 inches in length and has a wingspan of up to 52 inches. This hawk is known for its distinctive shape and coloration, which includes a dark brown back and a rufous breast. The Swainson's Hawk is mostly found in open areas such as grasslands and deserts. These hawks are carnivorous and feed on small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

The Ferruginous Hawk

The Ferruginous Hawk is a large-sized hawk that measures between 22 to 29 inches in length and has a wingspan of up to 55 inches. This hawk is known for its distinctive coloration, which includes a rusty brown back and a white underbelly. The Ferruginous Hawk is mostly found in open areas such as grasslands and deserts. These hawks are carnivorous and feed on small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

The Golden Eagle

The Golden Eagle is a large-sized hawk that measures between 26 to 40 inches in length and has a wingspan of up to 86 inches. This hawk is known for its golden-brown plumage and large size. The Golden Eagle is mostly found in open areas such as grasslands and deserts. These hawks are carnivorous and feed on small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

The Short-Tailed Hawk

The Short-Tailed Hawk is a medium-sized hawk that measures between 16 to 19 inches in length and has a wingspan of up to 38 inches. This hawk is known for its distinctive coloration, which includes a dark back and a light underbelly. The Short-Tailed Hawk is mostly found in wooded areas and feeds on small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

The Zone-Tailed Hawk

The Zone-Tailed Hawk is a medium-sized hawk that measures between 22 to 25 inches in length and has a wingspan of up to 48 inches. This hawk is known for its distinctive coloration, which includes a dark back and a light underbelly. The Zone-Tailed Hawk is mostly found in wooded areas and feeds on small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

The Common Black Hawk

The Common Black Hawk is a medium-sized hawk that measures between 20 to 22 inches in length and has a wingspan of up to 48 inches. This hawk is known for its distinctive coloration, which includes a black back and a white underbelly. The Common Black Hawk is mostly found near large bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, and coasts. These hawks are carnivorous and feed on fish, small mammals, and birds.

The Conclusion

In conclusion, Louisiana is home to a diverse range of hawks, each with its distinctive shape, coloration, and habitat. Whether you are a birdwatcher, a nature enthusiast, or simply curious about Louisiana's wildlife, these hawks are undoubtedly worth watching. So, the next time you visit Louisiana, keep an eye out for these magnificent birds of prey and appreciate their beauty and importance in the ecosystem.

Happy birdwatching!