# Buteo vs Accipiter: Hawk ID Key

> How to tell buteos from accipiters for hawk ID.
- Title: Buteo vs Accipiter: Hawk ID Key · Birds and Blooms | Shortify
- Summary: 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.
- Keywords: buteo, accipiter, hawk identification, red-tailed hawk, cooper's hawk, sharp-shinned hawk, soaring, forest hunting, Hawk, Key, Birds and Blooms
- Source: Birds and Blooms — https://birdsandblooms.com/birding/bird-species/birds-of-prey/buteo-vs-accipiter
- Author: Rachel Maidl
- Published: 2026-10-14T17:13:54+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: buteo, accipiter, hawk identification, red-tailed hawk, cooper's hawk, sharp-shinned hawk, soaring, forest hunting
## 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.
## Key takeaway

Buteos have broad wings and soar in open areas; accipiters hunt in forests with short wings and long tails.