Sharp-Shinned Hawk
Last Review/Updated: May 31, 2002
Accipiter stratus
The sharp-shinned hawk is recognized in the field by its small size (30 cm, 12 in. long), a notched or square tail, and rust-colored, barred underparts. The back and crown are a dark slate grey, and four dark bands stripe the tail. The sharp-shinned hawk may be confused with the merlin or a young Cooper's hawk. The rounded wings and lack of a toothed beak distinguish it from the former, and the square tail from the latter species.
Range includes most of North America and northern South America. Sharp-shinned hawks breed in an area extending from northern Alaska south to California. Winters are spent south of Canada. In Alberta this species is usually found in the montane, foothill, mixedwood and parkland zones. Nests are generally a flat platform of twigs lined with bark. Four to 5 eggs are laid.
Like most accipiters, the sharp-shinned hawk seldom soars, except during migration. During hunting flights it flies low over trees in search of prey. Small birds and insects constitute the bulk of its diet.
