From Birds and Blooms · Rachel Maidl · · 1m
Buteo vs Accipiter: Hawk ID Key
How to tell buteos from accipiters for hawk ID.
In brief
How to tell buteos from accipiters for hawk ID. Buteos have broad wings and soar in open areas; accipiters hunt in forests with short wings and long tails. Originally reported by Birds and Blooms.
Hawk ID First Step
Experts say the first step in identifying raptors is determining their family or type.
Buteo Characteristics
Buteos have broad wings and tails shorter than their bodies, found across the United States.
Red-tailed Hawk
Red-tailed hawks are common buteos spotted year-round coast-to-coast except northern states and Texas.
Accipiter Traits
Accipiters have short wings and long tails, hunting in forests with quick darting movements.
Cooper's Hawk
Cooper's hawks are common accipiters seen in most U.S. areas seasonally.
Hunting Behavior
Buteos soar in open areas and glide; accipiters dart through forests to ambush prey.
Backyard Hawks
Accipiters are more likely to be seen near backyards than soaring buteos.
At a glance
Buteos have broad wings and soar in open areas; accipiters hunt in forests with short wings and long tails.
