 |
Coopers Hawk and Sharp Shinned Hawk IdentificationCoopers Hawk and the Sharp Shinned Hawk are common backyard “visitors” and often confused, even by seasoned bird watchers. One must carefully observe numerous details to discern which species is present. I know a lot of you prefer that the Hawk’s not eat your doves, but it is a natural process, and therefore necessary. Take a look at the information below and use it to assist with identification of these two magnificent raptors.
Though their markings are quite similar, the body shape of these two birds are different. Notice the long tubular body of the Cooper’s compared to the broad chest and narrow hips of the Sharp-shinned. A Sharp-shinned Hawk is the size of a Blue Jay whereas the Cooper’s is about the size of a Crow. The head pattern is also a clear distinguishing factor (though it’s a bit tough to see in these pics). A Cooper’s Hawk has two tones—the top of the head (crown) is black, but the neck feathers are grey. Contrast that with the Sharp-shinned whose head and neck feathers are all grey. A Sharp-shinned Hawk has pencil-thin legs; a Coopers Hawk’s legs are much thicker. If you get a good view, sometimes you can distinguish the birds by their tail feathers. The tip of a Sharpies tail is square; the Cooper’s is rounded. However, be forewarned—the tail feathers of both birds can appear identical when in flight. And one additional note: the Coopers’ tail has a broad white band. If you see the bird from below, which is quite common when Hawk watching, note the wings. A Cooper’s body will form a cross because the head extends well beyond the wings. The Sharpie, however, has wings that are pushed forward at the wrists so its head is not situated beyond the wings.
The Sharpie will have a stripe above the eye which is absent from the Cooper’s. Both hawks can be assessed as immature by the eye color. Adults have red eyes, the immature birds have yellow eyes.
|
