Ferruginous Hawk

Table of Contents

Ferruginous Hawk Facts

Are Ferruginous Hawks rare?

Except when nesting, the Ferruginous Hawk seems curiously unafraid of humans, often allowing close approach. Threatened. Has declined seriously over most of its range; current population may be fewer than 4,000 pairs. Causes of decline include shooting, loss of habitat.

How fast can a Ferruginous Hawk fly?

This species can lay up to eight eggs per season, but the normal number is three to five. How fast does the ferruginous hawk fly? The ferruginous hawk can dive at speeds of 150 miles per hour. Its normal flight speed is much lower; probably somewhere between 20 and 40 miles per hour.

What eats Ferruginous Hawk?

The Ferruginous Hawk is a large and strong raptor, capable of holding its own. Even so, it sometimes falls prey to other raptors including Golden Eagles.

How long do Ferruginous Hawks live?

Ferruginous hawks have been known to live for 20 years in the wild, but most birds probably die within the first five years.

Why is the ferruginous hawk endangered?

The ferruginous hawk is currently classified at-risk by the General Status of Alberta Wild Species Report, and endangered under the Wildlife Act (AEP profile). It is estimated that fewer than 700 pairs remain in the province, as their numbers are declining because of loss of nesting habitat.

How big is a ferruginous hawk?

How does the ferruginous hawk reproduce?

Ferruginous Hawks have a clutch of 2-6 eggs that are bluish white, marked with brown. The average size of the egg is 2.4″ (61mm). The eggs are fertilized and laid in April, and incubate for approximately 28 days. Young fledge within 38-50 days.

How many eggs does a Ferruginous Hawk lay?

Nests can be found from ground level to 20 metres high (cliffs, haystacks, farm buildings, trees). May have up to five nests but only use one each year. They lay three to five eggs each year.

Do Ferruginous Hawks migrate?

Migration. Short- to medium-distance migrant. Some southern-breeding populations may be sedentary. Migrants generally take routes that do not involve crossing the Rockies.

Is the Ferruginous Hawk an eagle?

Almost an Eagle

Noted ornithologist Arthur Cleveland Bent evocatively described the Ferruginous Hawk as the largest, most powerful, and grandest of our buteos, a truly regal bird.” Among this hawk’s eagle-like qualities are its large size about two feet long with an impressive 4.7-foot wingspan.