Common name: SWAINSON'S HAWK
Scientific name: Buteo swainsoni
Identifying characteristics:
This rather variable species is usually dark blackish brown above, and off-white below, with the breast brownish and dark barring and mottling on the remainder of the underparts. The tail is usually gray, banded with white at the tip, and with several dark bands. Both dark and rufous phases occur, and there are intermediary variations between the principal color forms.
Range:
The species is found throughout the Great Plains and drier areas of western North America, as far north as Alaska. This hawk makes the longest migration flight of any North American bird species. It moves south in great flocks to the pampas of Argentina, and returns as far north as Canada.
Habitat:
It prefers open plains and prairies, at low to moderate elevations.
Nesting:
The nest may be as much as four feet across, and is built of twigs and grasses, and lined with bark, greenery, flowers, and the bird's own down. It is sited as high as possible, sometimes up to 100 feet. Two or three eggs are common.
Feeding habits:
The species prefers large insects, such as crickets and grasshoppers, but small rodents, reptiles, and amphibians, as well as bats and even young or injured birds, also form part of its diet.
Conservation status:
Maintaining reasonable numbers.
