Red-tailed Hawk

Red-tailed Hawk

(Buteo jamaicensis)

Aguililla cola roja, Gavilán colirojo, Guaraguao común, Gavilán Valdivia.

Identification: Stocky and light-colored with broad wings and dark patches in the frontal middle part of the wings (patagial). Adults have the characteristic rufous tail feathers. Juveniles are brown all over with white chest, chest band of brown streaks, and barred tails. Highly variable plumage but adults retain the diagnostic red tail and often show chest band.

Migratory behavior: Soars extensively, both while using thermals or updrafts at the mountain slopes. Typically migrates alone or in small loose groups mixed with other raptors.

Remarks: Widespread in the region with resident populations in northern Mexico at all elevations and in the mountains from central Mexico to Panama. Two resident subspecies are found at all elevations in the Greater Antilles.