In New Mexico, there are 13 different species of hawks that can be observed. Each species has its own unique characteristics and can be found in different habitats throughout the state. Let’s delve into each of these hawk species to get a better understanding of the diversity of hawks in New Mexico.
1. Broad-winged Hawk: The broad-winged hawk is a small to medium-sized hawk known for its broad wings and short tail. It can be found in New Mexico during the breeding season, primarily in the mountains and forests.
2. Common Black Hawk: As the name suggests, the common black hawk is known for its predominantly black plumage. It prefers riparian areas and can be seen near streams and rivers in the southern parts of the state.
3. Cooper’s Hawk: Cooper’s hawks are medium-sized hawks with short, rounded wings and long tails. They are often found in woodlands and forests, where they hunt birds and small mammals.
4. Ferruginous Hawk: The ferruginous hawk is a large hawk with a distinct rusty-red coloration on its plumage. It prefers open grasslands and can be seen soaring high in the sky, searching for prey.
5. Gray Hawk: The gray hawk is a unique species with its gray plumage and reddish-brown shoulders. It is commonly found near water sources such as rivers, streams, and wetlands.
6. Harris’s Hawk: Harris’s hawks are known for their social behavior, often seen hunting in groups or pairs. They have dark plumage on their back and wings, with a reddish tail. They are commonly found in desert and scrubland areas.
7. Northern Goshawk: The northern goshawk is a powerful and agile hawk that can be found in forested areas of New Mexico. It has a bluish-gray back and wings, with a white chest and barred underparts.
8. Northern Harrier: The northern harrier, also known as the marsh hawk, is a bird of prey that hunts low over open areas such as grasslands and marshes. The male has a distinctive gray coloration, while the female is brown.
9. Red-tailed Hawk: The red-tailed hawk is one of the most commonly observed hawks in New Mexico. It has a broad, rounded tail that is often reddish-brown in color. They can be found in a variety of habitats, including deserts, grasslands, and forests.
10. Rough-legged Hawk: The rough-legged hawk is a winter visitor to New Mexico, often seen in open areas such as grasslands and agricultural fields. It has feathered legs and a light-colored belly.
11. Sharp-shinned Hawk: The sharp-shinned hawk is a small hawk with short wings and a long, squared-off tail. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands and urban areas.
12. Swainson’s Hawk: Swainson’s hawks are known for their long-distance migrations, with New Mexico being part of their breeding range. They have a dark brown back and white underparts, often seen in grasslands and agricultural areas.
13. Zone-tailed Hawk: The zone-tailed hawk is a fascinating species that resembles the common turkey vulture in flight. It is often found in canyons and wooded areas, and it can sometimes be mistaken for a vulture due to its similar appearance.
These are the 13 species of hawks that can be found in New Mexico, each with its own unique characteristics and habitat preferences. Exploring the diverse landscapes of the state may offer opportunities to observe these magnificent birds in action.