Red-tailed Hawk

Editor’s Note: The Red-tailed Hawk is part of the CROW CAW (Case A Week) series, which tells the stories of the patients at the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife on Sanibel Island, the dangers they face, and how we can help protect our wildlife. Read previous CROW cases here.

Red-tailed hawks are iconic raptors that help maintain ecological balance by playing a vital role in the food chain. These predators are known for their wide wingspan and distinctive red tails. With wingspans spanning up to four feet, these raptors inhabit diverse North American landscapes, from open fields to urban areas. This species has an average lifespan of 21 years, with the oldest hawk recorded reaching age 30.

The red-tailed hawk has excellent vision, curved beaks, and sharp talons that make it a successful hunter of small rodents or birds. Despite their remarkable hunting abilities, these birds have adapted to roadsides where increased roadkill provides easy access to food without the energy expenditure of hunting. This proximity to roads exposes them to heightened risks of injury and mortality from collisions with vehicles.

This red-tailed hawk (24-2409) was the victim of a vehicle collision. The patient arrived on June 7 after being hit by a truck and stuck in the grill for 17 miles in the rain. Initial examinations revealed various injuries, such as broken feathers, bleeding from the right wing, and dried blood on the foot. There were no significant wounds externally. However, there were various signs of internal trauma. The bird had a suspected pnemuocoelom (air or gas in its abdomen) and an enlarged liver, which doctors saw on X-rays. The veterinarians administered pain medication and provided supportive care.

After a week of treatment, the hawk had improved significantly and was ready for the next rehabilitation stage. The patient was transferred to the Avian Reconditioning Center for continued care in the outdoor flight enclosure while CROW’s outdoor enclosures are being rebuilt. Our staff is optimistic about the patient’s release aftercare in an outdoor enclosure.

For their safety and ours, caution and awareness are crucial when encountering wildlife near roads. Slowing down and allowing birds like the red-tailed hawk the time and space to move away safely can prevent collisions and help preserve these vital members of our natural ecosystems.