North and Central America. A variety of habitats from tundra to semi-desert, wherever there are open hunting areas with woodland seclusion for nesting. Rats, mice, rabbits, occasionally small birds, reptiles. Usually lone hunters. Often perches on poles or treetops.
Call is a faint, high scream.
Nest is a platform of sticks in a forest tree, isolated low tree, saguaro, cliff, etc. In common with other buteos, the Red-Tailed Hawk habitually soars in wide circles and drops upon its prey in a steep dive. Commonly sighted at roadsides, perching atop telephone poles or fence posts. May sit for hours. Closely related to the Common Buzzard of Europe.