The Swainson’s Hawk (Buteo swainsoni) is a remarkable bird of prey native to North America, known for its impressive migration and adaptable hunting habits. Visit our Birds of Prey exhibit to observe these elegant raptors up close. Let’s explore their diet, habitat, size, and conservation status, as well as some interesting characteristics that make the Swainson’s Hawk a true avian wonder.
Diet
Swainson’s Hawks are opportunistic feeders, with a diet that varies depending on the season and the availability of prey. They primarily feed on small mammals, such as rodents and rabbits, as well as birds, reptiles, and amphibians. During migration and breeding season, they are known to consume large numbers of insects, including grasshoppers, crickets, and dragonflies.
Habitat
Swainson’s Hawks inhabit open areas, such as grasslands, prairies, and agricultural fields, throughout western and central North America. Their breeding range extends from the Great Basin and the Canadian Prairies to Texas and northern Mexico. Swainson’s Hawks are migratory birds, undertaking an incredible journey of up to 14,000 miles (22,500 km) round trip each year to spend the winter in South America.
Size and Weight
Swainson’s Hawks are medium-sized raptors, with a wingspan ranging from 48 to 54 inches (122 to 137 cm). Their body length typically measures between 18 to 22 inches (46 to 56 cm), and they weigh between 1.3 to 3.1 pounds (0.6 to 1.4 kg). As with many birds of prey, females are generally larger and heavier than males.
Migration
Swainson’s Hawks are renowned for their impressive migratory behavior, traveling upwards of 12,000 miles each year between North America and their wintering grounds in South America.
Conservation Status
The Swainson’s Hawk is currently listed as “Least Concern” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. However, their population has faced declines due to habitat loss, pesticide exposure, and human disturbance. Conservation efforts are in place to monitor and protect their breeding grounds and migratory routes.
Unique Characteristics
Long-Distance Migrants:
Swainson's Hawks are known for their extraordinary migration, traveling from their breeding grounds in North America to their wintering grounds in South America. This incredible journey takes them through Central America and across the Andes, covering up to 7,000 miles (11,250 km) one way.
Soaring Skills:
Like other Buteo species, Swainson's Hawks are skilled soarers. They take advantage of thermals (rising columns of warm air) to glide effortlessly across the sky while searching for prey, conserving energy during their long migrations.
Variation in Plumage:
Swainson's Hawks exhibit considerable variation in plumage, with different color morphs ranging from light to dark. Light morphs are more common, characterized by a white or pale underside and a dark brown "bib" on the chest. Dark morphs have a mostly dark brown or black plumage.
Monogamous Mates:
Bald Eagles form long-lasting, monogamous pair bonds, often returning to the same nesting territory year after year. Together, they build massive nests in tall trees or on cliff ledges, with some nests weighing over a ton and measuring up to 9 feet (2.7 meters) in diameter.
Social Behavior:
Swainson's Hawks are known for their social behavior, often forming large flocks during migration and on their wintering grounds. These flocks, called "kettles," can consist of hundreds or even thousands of individuals, creating an impressive sight for birdwatchers.
Visit the Swainson's Hawk at the Abilene Zoo
During your visit to the Abilene Zoo, make sure to stop by our Birds of Prey exhibit in Elm Creek Backyard to observe the graceful Swainson’s Hawk.
FAQ
When do swainson's hawks migrate?
Swainson’s Hawks are renowned for their impressive migratory behavior, traveling upwards of 12,000 miles each year between North America and their wintering grounds in South America. The timeline of Swainson’s Hawk migration is closely linked to the changing seasons. These birds begin their southward journey in late summer or early fall, as they respond to the shorter days and cooler temperatures. This correlates with the end of the breeding season, during which Swainson’s Hawks raise their young in regions across North America, from the Great Plains to the western United States and parts of Canada.
Why is the swainson's hawk endangered?
The Swainson’s Hawk is listed as a threatened species primarily due to habitat loss and environmental changes. The conversion of their natural grassland habitats into agricultural and urban areas has reduced their available living and hunting spaces. Other significant threats include pesticide poisoning and collisions with vehicles and infrastructure. Despite some population recovery, their numbers remain much lower than historic levels. Conservation efforts focused on habitat preservation and monitoring are essential for their continued survival.
