Harris Hawk Least Concern

Harris Hawk

Parabuteo unicinctus

Also known as: Bay-winged Hawk, Dusky Hawk

The Harris's Hawk is a unique raptor native to the arid southwestern US and South America, famously known as 'wolves of the sky'. Unlike other birds of prey which are solitary, they hunt in family groups, using complex cooperative tactics to flush out and capture prey in difficult scrubland terrain. This social nature makes them one of the most popular birds in falconry.

Did you know?
Harris's hawks often hunt in groups, a rare behaviour among birds of prey that increases their success rate.

Quick Facts

Lifespan
12-20 years
Habitat
Deserts, scrublands, woodlands
Diet
Small mammals, birds, reptiles
Region
The Americas

Detailed Information on the Harris Hawk

Weight 0.9 kg
Height 55 cm
Length 56 cm
Wingspan 110 cm
Top Speed 70 km/h
Social Structure: Cooperative groups
Activity Pattern: Diurnal
Trophic Level: Carnivore
Migration: Resident

Population Trend: Stable

Main Threats:
  • Habitat loss
  • Electrocution
Sonoran Desert (USA)
The Pantanal (Brazil)
Family: Accipitridae
Order: Accipitriformes