Like falcons, hawks often migrate in large groups. It’s an evolutionarily advantageous strategy that minimizes energy loss. These birds also follow set migration routes, wintering in the same places and returning to the same nesting spots. Some are resident in areas with readily available prey and suitable living conditions. Most hawk species migrate to a winter staging area. Many species are opportunistic, which gives them a competitive edge that helps to ensure their long-term survival. Their talons are their main weapon to kill their prey. They will take the usual run of birds, reptiles, rodents, and small animals. Cooperative hunting often reflects their availability, as with the flushing behavior of the Rough-Legged Hawk with Prairie Dogs. Habitat is the deciding factor instead of the species. The prey of hawks and falcons are similar. While it’s not the norm, some species such as Harris’s Hawks engage in this behavior.
On the other hand, there are varying patterns of cooperative hunting. You’ll see others that hover or take aerial dives to finish the job. Some birds silently glide through the air to take their prey. Consequently, some species soar and scour the landscape for prey. Many have broader wings and tails that are sometimes rounded. Speed isn’t usually their forte because of their stockier size and the different shapes of their body features. Hawks often use a different playbook of hunting styles than falcons. You’ll see specializations that cover the gamut of behavior from body form to hunting strategy. Hawks often take advantage of the opportunities of these varying habitats. Likewise, you’ll find hawks in a variety of habitats, from open country to deep forests.
Many live in suburban settings and do well despite the environmental pressures. These birds aren’t confined to the wilderness. Many species have adapted to human settings and adapted to their presence. Hawks occupy a similar diversity of habitats and ranges. It all depends on which side of the argument you embrace. That fact, albeit its biology, has angered birdwatchers. They are smart enough to figure out the relationship between bird feeders and likely victims. The downside is the hunting behavior of falcons. It’s a sport that is still enjoyed to this day. The intelligence of these birds is another advantage. Some species lend themselves to this pastime more readily than others. Falconry or hunting with birds of prey goes back to 1300 BC. The relationship with falcons is a double-edged sword. Relationship with Humans Image Credit: Pixabay Today, many falcon species have seen increases in their populations by three figures. Other species suffered similar fates, particularly those high on the food chain. The more animals they consumed, the more it built up in their bodies, leading to premature death. Unfortunately, the pesticide accumulated in the prey species of many birds of prey. It served its purpose to control the insect vectors of malaria. The manufacturer created synthesized it in the 1940s. Another factor in their favor is the ban of the pesticide DDT. That prevents them from becoming vulnerable if a population of a particular prey species declines. Having a diverse diet is undoubtedly a point in their favor. Many falcon species fall into the category of least species of concern. Saying they are adaptable is an understatement. You’ll even find them in wetlands and sea coasts. The latter are anomalies that typically aren’t found in an area but somehow make their way to unexpected places.Ī similar number occurs in the west half of the country, with overlapping ranges.įalcons live in a broad spectrum of habitats, from grasslands to mountains to forests of all types. Five occur in the eastern half of the United States, including one accidental bird. They’ve adapted well to humans and their activities. You’ll find falcons all over the world to the point that they are even bridging on becoming cosmopolitan. At least, the falcons make it quick, killing the unfortunate ones with their beaks soon after they’ve caught them. They simply have no time to react to these astonishing speeds. Of course, that gives these birds a significant advantage over their prey. These birds can set world records, as evidenced by the fastest verified speed record of 242 mph. They have narrow, pointed wings with long tails that act as a rudder when they fly. The most distinguishing feature of falcons as a whole is their body shape. Trainability: Intelligent, loyal, eager to please.
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