What Kind Of Hawks Are In New York

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So You Think You Saw a Hawk in the Big Apple? A Field Guide for the Clueless Citizen

Ah, New York City. Concrete jungle where dreams are made of, and apparently, where hawks like to raise their families? That's right, folks, soaring amongst the skyscrapers are these feathered friends, keeping the rodent population in check and generally being pretty darn majestic. But hey, if you're like most New Yorkers, you might be wondering, "Wait, what kind of hawk was that?!"

Fear not, ornithology-challenged citizen! This handy guide will equip you with the knowledge to impress your friends (or at least win your next bar trivia night).

The Most Likely Suspects: A Rogues Gallery of Red-tailed Royalty

Let's face it, in the hustle and bustle of the city, the Red-tailed Hawk is the reigning champion. These adaptable birds can be found anywhere from Central Park to your local rooftop garden. Fun fact: They've even been known to nest on skyscrapers – talk about luxury apartments!

Recognizing a Red-tailed Hawk is pretty straightforward. Imagine a** broad-winged raptor** with a rusty-red colored tail (shocking, I know). Their size can vary, but they're generally one of the bigger birds you'll see circling overhead.

Beyond the Basics: Hawks on the Prowl

Now, while Red-tailed Hawks are the A-listers of the NYC hawk scene, there are a few other feathered fellas you might encounter:

  • The Ninja of the Neighborhood: The Cooper's Hawk is a sleek, agile hunter, perfectly suited for darting through city streets in pursuit of unsuspecting pigeons.
  • The Soaring Specialist: Keep an eye out for the Broad-winged Hawk during migration seasons. These guys have a distinctive, bouncy flight pattern that makes them easy to spot.
  • The Marsh Master (Who Likes to Visit): The Northern Harrier prefers open fields, but don't be surprised if you see this unique, owl-like hawk gliding over a city park.

Remember: This is just a taste of the aerial awesomeness in NYC. If you're looking to expand your hawk identification skills, grab some binoculars and head to a local park during migration season – you might be surprised by what you see!

How to Become a Hawk-Spotting Extraordinaire

Feeling inspired? Here are some quick tips to turn you into a hawk-spotting champion:

  • Frequent the Parks: Central Park, Prospect Park, Van Cortlandt Park – these green spaces are prime hawk territory.
  • Look Up!: It sounds obvious, but you'd be surprised how many people forget to look beyond the next bodega.
  • Listen for Calls: Hawks have piercing cries that can carry quite a distance.
  • Download a Birdwatching App: There are plenty of free apps that can help you identify birds by sight and sound.

Hawk FAQ: Your Burning Bird Questions Answered

  • How to tell a hawk from a falcon? Falcons are smaller and have pointed wings, while hawks have broader wings and a rounded tail.
  • Should I be scared of hawks? Absolutely not! They're more interested in catching lunch (rats, pigeons) than bothering humans.
  • Can I feed the hawks? It's best to admire them from afar. Feeding wild animals can disrupt their natural diet.
  • What should I do if I see an injured hawk? Contact a wildlife rehabilitation center.
  • Where can I learn more about NYC hawks? Check out the websites of NYC Audubon or the Department of Parks and Recreation for hawkwatching info and resources.

    • So there you have it! Now you're ready to explore the world of NYC hawks. Remember, responsible hawk-watching is key. So grab your binoculars, keep your eyes peeled, and get ready to be amazed by the feathered wonders soaring above the city!

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