Broad-winged Hawk

Buteo platypterus

The Broad-winged Hawk is the smallest of the North American Buteos.  They are generally found near forest edges and clearings.  During migration, thousands may congregate along ridgelines and coastlines or other locations with favorable wind conditions. Relatively tame, Broad-winged Hawks can often be approached more closely than most hawks.

Habitat: Breeds in deciduous or mixed forest, generally near clearings.  Prefers locations near water.  During migration, they may be found in nearly any habitat, but generally roost in forest at night.

Diet: Will feed on a wide variety of items, including small mammals, frogs, snakes, lizards, small birds, large insects, and earthworms.

Behavior: Usually hunts from a perch, often along forest and woodland edges and near water.  During courtship, pairs may be seen circling high in the sky together, calling to each other. 

Nesting: May through July

Breeding Map: Breeding Bird Survey map

Song: Shrill one-pitch whistle, usually given in flight 

Migration: Summers throughout most of the eastern United States, and southeastern and south-central Canada.  Long distance migrants, most fly to South America for the winter.

Similar Species: Red-shouldered Hawk

Conservation Status: Generally stable throughout its range.

Further Information: 1) USGS Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Broad-winged Hawk

2) Cornell University's "All About Birds - Broad-winged Hawk"

3) eNature.com: Broad-winged Hawk

Photo Information: Photo taken near Aberdeen by Dan Tallman.