1972-Annual Town Report - Laserfiche WebLink

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i RED-TAILED HAWK, Buteo jamaicensis Larger than a Common Crow. Occurs chiefly as a migrant I in spring and fall, when it may be seen soaring high overhead on thermal currents or following updrafts along ridges. A regular but uncommon winter resident. Frequents less dis- turbed woodlands and woodland edges where scattered pairs still nest, more open country — including marshlands — in winter. This is the largest of the heavy-winged, short-tailed hawks y' that frequently soar in flight. Tail of adults is chestnut-red above and pale, unbarred beneath; tail of immatures is strong- barred. Both adults and immatures have a prominent streaked f band across center of light belly. Confusing species are Broad-winged and Red-shouldered Hawks, (B. platypterus and t B. lineatus.) Former is much smaller and has wide bands of s black and white on tail; latter has many narrow tail bands, also reddish shoulder patches and underparts. Immatures of both species evenly streaked below. Voice of the Red-tail is a high-pitched, squealing whistle. Nest, built of sticks, twigs, and grasses, is usually at con- siderable height, sometimes 60 to 70 feet, in a large tree. Eggs: 2 to 4, dull white, irregularly spotted with brown. In- cubation: 28 to 32 days, by both sexes. Small mammals, such as mice and red squirrels, and insects make up much of its food. Often snakes and frogs are eaten, j and occasionally a small bird. This is a very beneficial hawk; i mice are its favorite food. MASHPEE RED-TAIL HAWK I` presented by courtesy of Elio P. Oliva, Wildlife Officer for Town of Mashpee. Hawk from Attaquin Park which was found with broken wing and broken leg and bullet wound during 1972. This bird was restored to health and released on October 14, 1972. Photo by Mr. Jack Lane, Centerville