Do Red-Tailed Hawks Prefer Open or Wooded Areas for Hunting?

Habitat and Hunting Style

Red-Tailed Hawks are raptors with a broad, flat wing shape, ideal for soaring and scanning the landscape from great heights. They typically inhabit open areas such as grasslands, deserts, and agricultural fields. Within these open spaces, they establish a thermal soaring technique, using rising air currents to stay aloft for extended periods, scanning the ground below for potential prey.

Perch and Pursuit Hunting

While Red-Tailed Hawks excel in open areas, they can also adapt to wooded environments. In these situations, they employ a different hunting strategy, perching atop trees or power poles to scan for prey. Once spotted, they will swiftly swoop down, using their agility and speed to pursue their target. This “pursuit” hunting style is less common among Red-Tailed Hawks but can be effective in areas with limited open space.

Training and Hunting with Falcons and Hawks

As a seasoned falconer, I recommend understanding the unique characteristics of Red-Tailed Hawks and other birds of prey. When training a Red-Tailed Hawk, it’s essential to respect their hunting style and habitat preferences. For instance, a Harris’s Hawk, known for its agility in wooded environments, can be an excellent addition to a falconry apprentice program. By mastering the skills and techniques required for hunting with these birds, apprentices can develop a deeper appreciation for the art of falconry and the natural world.