Sightings of Hawks on a Sunny Day: 6+ Species Spotted

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In summary, the conversation discusses the sighting of hawks and other birds in the speaker's neighborhood. They mention a red-tailed hawk, broadwings, and a goshawk that were seen while the speaker was outside with their camera. The speaker also mentions owls that are typically seen at night in their area. They explain that the birds are likely taking advantage of the warm weather and favorable winds to travel and hunt. The speaker also notes that their location, with a hill and terrain providing updrafts, makes it easier for the birds to fly without exerting too much energy. They end by mentioning the interesting mix of bird species seen together and noting that the term "bird-brain" is not necessarily an insult.
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turbo
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Today is sunny and warm with a breeze out of the SW. I went out on the back deck and saw a soaring red-tail so I went inside for my camera, but he was too high for a good picture. While I was out there (maybe 5 minutes) a half-dozen other hawks soared overhead, including several broadwings, a goshawk and one or two others that I couldn't identify on sight. They were all at pretty good altitudes, and they weren't ID as threats by the songbirds, because they kept on singing. Last year when there was a nesting pair of broadwings down back, the birds would go silent when they showed up hunting.
 
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We have at least a pair in the neighborhood. I need to post a picture that I took a few weeks ago. Then there is the odd individual who seems to pass through.

At night we've had owls, but I think they have moved off deeper into forested areas.
 
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Astronuc said:
We have at least a pair in the neighborhood. I need to post a picture that I took a few weeks ago. Then there is the odd individual who seems to pass through.

At night we've had owls, but I think they have moved off deeper into forested areas.
This little caravan was odd because there were so many different species traveling at the same time. To be fair, our prevailing winds are out of the NW and the hawks would be quartering against that if they followed the land mass up along the Atlantic coast to Maine. When hawks get a free ride on a very warm (82 deg F presently) SW wind they have every reason to take advantage of it. We live on the south slope of a pretty big hill, so with the sun and the terrain giving them an updraft, they were pretty much just coasting along with lots of altitude to ride out any downdrafts without having to work too much. The word "bird-brain" is not so much an insult as it might seem. :biggrin:
 

FAQ: Sightings of Hawks on a Sunny Day: 6+ Species Spotted

What factors contribute to the sightings of multiple hawk species on a sunny day?

The most important factor is the weather. Sunny days provide clear visibility and thermals that hawks use for hunting and soaring. Additionally, sunny days also offer optimal conditions for prey, such as small mammals and insects, to be active and visible to hawks.

Is it common to see multiple hawk species in one location?

Yes, it is not uncommon to see multiple hawk species in one location. Hawks have overlapping territories and may congregate in areas with abundant food sources. In addition, some species, such as the red-tailed hawk, are adaptable and can thrive in a variety of habitats, increasing the chances of seeing different species in one area.

What types of hawks are commonly spotted on sunny days?

The most frequently seen hawks on sunny days are the red-tailed hawk, Cooper's hawk, and sharp-shinned hawk. Other species that may be spotted include the red-shouldered hawk, broad-winged hawk, and American kestrel.

Are there any specific times of day that are best for spotting hawks on a sunny day?

Hawks are most active during the early morning and late afternoon hours when thermals are strongest and prey is most active. However, they can also be seen throughout the day, especially when there is an abundance of prey or favorable wind conditions.

How can I identify different hawk species when they are in flight?

One way to identify different hawk species in flight is by their silhouette and flight patterns. Each species has a distinct shape and size, as well as unique patterns of soaring and flapping. It can also be helpful to familiarize yourself with the different plumage and coloration of each species to help with identification.

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