In just a few weeks, it will be time to get out your bird-watching binoculars and look for Red-tail aerial activity.  In these cold months of late winter and early spring, you may see Buteo jamaicensis soaring about the skies emitting a scream or a chwirk-call.  Red-tailed hawks, as a general rule, are very secretive and territorial about their nesting habits, and come spring—the season for courtship—they become all the more protective of what they perceive to be theirs.  Red-tail territories range from 1/2  to over 2 square miles, where both parents will work to build a nest for their young.  Sometimes soaring competitions take place when an outside hawk encroaches upon a claimed territory.  Both hawks then compete by soaring higher and performing talon drops repeatedly until one hawk retreats.

Here at Wildlife Works, we’ve had the opportunity to get to know some of these hawks up close and personal—from fuzzy beige nestlings to adults sporting their trademark “red” tails.
Red-Tails on the Loose!
In 2001, we admitted 12 Red-tailed Hawks.  One nestling was transferred to another center, where a foster adult was available.  Four adults were successfully   rehabilitated and released.  Two birds are still in our care, with potential for return to the wild.  The most amazing Red-tail story this year was a nestling whose tree was cut down.  The resultant  spinal trauma and  wing fracture to the 4-6 week old bird made rehabilitation a difficult task.  Thanks to our vet, who treated the wing, and a local chiropractor, who adjusted the spinal displacement, this young bird was ultimately released.   Hoorah!!!