Red-Tailed Hawk

Last week after a full day at work, I came home and found what I originally thought was a falcon, only to find out later it was in fact a red-tailed hawk. He was munching on a squirrel, I guess that means one less squirrel for Max to chase and never succeed to catch.

My first thought was, "what am I supposed to do" my second thought was "time to get my camera out". I also stayed in the car while capturing all these photos for my safety, but also so I could "chase" him out of the yard for Max's safety so he could go outside after being inside by himself all day.

Red-tailed hawk in my yard eating a squirrel.

Facts About Red-Tailed Hawks

• Widespread Distribution: Red-tailed Hawks are the most widespread buteos in North America, found from Alaska to Panama.

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• Diet: They primarily eat small mammals, including rodents, but also consume birds, fish, and reptiles.

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• Habitat: These hawks can be found in various environments, including open woodlands, deserts, grasslands, fields, parks, and along roadsides.

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• Lifespan: Red-tailed Hawks can live up to 30 years in the wild, with some individuals in captivity reaching up to 28 years.

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• Courtship: They have a dramatic courtship ritual, including impressive dives and the use of prey as gifts.

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• Adaptability: Red-tailed Hawks are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of habitats.

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Red-tailed hawk flying with squirrel in talons

The past few weeks I've been able to photograph so much wildlife in Windsor-Essex. It truly amazes me how much wild-life lives around us. What's something cool you've been able to spot?

Red-tailed hawk keeping it's prey saf