In Tennessee, hawks are known for their distinctive calls, which can vary depending on the species. One common hawk species found in Tennessee is the Red-tailed Hawk. These majestic birds emit a high-pitched shrill call that can be described as a series of sharp “kik-kik-kik” sounds. This call is often repeated several times and can be quite piercing.
Another hawk species found in Tennessee is the Cooper’s Hawk. Their calls are deeper and have a different quality compared to the Red-tailed Hawk. The call of a Cooper’s Hawk can be described as a rapid, repetitive “cak-cak-cak” sound. It has a more rhythmic pattern and a slightly lower pitch compared to the Red-tailed Hawk.
To accurately identify and differentiate between these hawk calls, it may require some practice and patience. Listening to recordings or observing hawks in their natural habitat can greatly assist in recognizing and understanding their vocalizations.
I personally had the opportunity to observe hawks in Tennessee during a hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As I ventured along the trails, I heard the distinctive calls of both Red-tailed Hawks and Cooper’s Hawks echoing through the dense forest. The Red-tailed Hawks’ high-pitched “kik-kik-kik” calls were particularly striking, cutting through the tranquility of the surroundings. On a separate occasion, I was fortunate to witness a Cooper’s Hawk perched on a tree branch, and its repetitive “cak-cak-cak” call added a sense of wildness to the moment.
Hawks in Tennessee have distinct calls that vary depending on the species. Red-tailed Hawks emit a high-pitched shrill “kik-kik-kik” sound, while Cooper’s Hawks produce a deeper and more rhythmic “cak-cak-cak” call. By listening to recordings, observing hawks in their natural habitat, and practicing, one can become more familiar with these unique vocalizations.