cooper hawk
1. Bird Name
The bird under consideration is the Cooper’s Hawk, also referred to by its scientific name (Latin name) – Accipiter cooperii.
2. Appearance
The Cooper’s hawk presents a combination of colors and distinctive markings. The adult bird displays a steel-blue to slate-gray color on the upper parts of its body, while the underparts are paler with reddish barring. It has a noticeably long tail characterized by thick bands and rounded edges. Its hooked beak is perfect for its raptor lifestyle, and the eyes are often a striking red. The juveniles display a different color scheme with brown upperparts and streaked lower parts. Interestingly, there are distinct differences between males and females. The females are generally larger in size and may have a slightly lighter hue compared to their male counterparts.
3. Size
The average length of Cooper’s hawk can vary between 35-50 cm (14-20 inches). With an average wingspan of about 62–95 cm (24–37 inches), the bird displays impressive flight capabilities. Cooper’s hawks typically weight anywhere between 220-680 grams, with females being heavier than males.
4. Habitat & Distribution
An inhabitant of North America, the Cooper’s hawk is spread across the United States, southern Canada, and even into northern parts of Mexico. With a natural preference for deciduous woodlands and mixed forests, this bird has surprisingly adapted to urban and suburban environments as well.
5. Interesting Facts
The Cooper’s hawk is a master flyer, known for its speed and surprising agility while flying between trees in dense forests. They are also known for their fierce defenses of their nests, not hesitating to attack humans who get too close. Interestingly, despite being solitary by nature, these hawks have been known to form communal roosts during the winter season.
6. Diet
The Cooper’s hawk is a carnivore, primarily subsisting on a diet of birds and small mammals. It is skilled at capturing prey in flight, often surprising its target.
7. Behavior & Sounds
These hawks nest in tall deciduous trees, with males involving in the creation of nests. While flying, Cooper’s hawks make quick, circular wingbeats with short glides, sometimes even flying low to surprise prey. Their call is distinct – a series of quick, repeated notes.
8. Conservation Status
According to the IUCN Red List, the conservation status of the Cooper’s hawk is categorized as “Least Concern” – suggesting the bird population is currently stable with no imminent threats.
9. Lifespan
In the wild, the Cooper’s hawk has an average lifespan of 10-15 years, while in captivity, they can live up to 20 years with appropriate care.
10. Additional Notes
Locally, they are often referred to as Chicken Hawks and in Spanish, they are called ‘Gavilan de Cooper’. The role of the Cooper’s hawk in an ecosystem is vital as they control the population of rodents and other small mammals. Although once negatively impacted by the use of DDT pesticides, Cooper’s hawks have largely bounced back, showcasing their resilience and adaptability.
