RED-TAILED HAWK

 

 The Red-tailed Hawk is a prominent sight in the skies of Bisbee, Arizona. This majestic bird of prey is easily recognizable by its broad, rounded wings and a short, wide tail that often exhibits a rich, russet-red hue, giving the species its name. In Bisbee, these hawks are commonly seen perched atop telephone poles or soaring high on warm thermals that rise from the arid landscape. Their keen eyesight allows them to spot prey such as rodents and small mammals from great distances, making them formidable hunters. The plumage of the Red-tailed Hawk varies, but it generally features a mix of brown and white patterns across its body, with a more pronounced band of dark marks across its belly. Their piercing cry, a hoarse, descending scream, echoes across open fields and canyons, adding to the mystique of the desert's natural soundtrack. These hawks adapt well to a variety of habitats, and their presence in Bisbee highlights the diverse wildlife of the region.