Ferruginous Hawk
Buteo regalis
Also known as: Rusty Hawk
The Ferruginous Hawk is the largest 'buteo' hawk in North America, named for the rusty (ferruginous) colour of its back and legs. It is a bird of the open plains and prairies, specialising in hunting small mammals like ground squirrels and prairie dogs. Due to the lack of trees in its habitat, it will often build its large nest on cliffs or even directly on the ground.
Did you know?
Ferruginous Hawks sometimes hunt in groups to flush out prey from burrows!Ferruginous Hawk Quick Facts
Detailed Information on the Ferruginous Hawk
Weight 1.2 kg
Height 60 cm
Length 63 cm
Wingspan 140 cm
Top Speed 60 km/h
Social Structure: Solitary/Pairs
Activity Pattern: Diurnal
Trophic Level: Carnivore
Migration: Partially migratory
Population Trend: Stable
Main Threats:
- Agriculture
- Loss of prairie habitat
Great Basin (USA)
Canadian Prairies
Family: Accipitridae
Order: Accipitriformes
