Hawks

John
- March 06, 2008

How do I attact these beautiful birds to my yard? I see them flying by occasionally but not landing in a clear site. I have a bird feeder in my back yard which attacts all kinds of birds,finches,cardinals,woodpeckers,etc.

Dear John:

Got your email today and I'm glad to hear you have an interest in learning more about these beautiful birds of prey. The problem is, you didn't tell where it is you live. That would tell me what kind of habitat and species of hawks there might be in your area.

There is no single big answer to this topic of attracting hawks to where you live, Rather, there's many answers to many smaller questions. To begin, try to determine what looks obvious or logical. Example: If you're already feeding the wild birds, you are inviting Cooper's hawks and Sharp-shinned hawks to the bird feeders, if you live around here. These small Accipitors of the hawk community are made catch small song birds, like the ones that come to you bird feeders. They are always welcome and are a joy to see.

The larger hawks like the Red-tailed hawk , Broad-winged hawk, Red-shouldered hawk nest in large tracks of timber around here anyway. They will build their nest in a place only to their liking and if their territory is near where you live, you are more apt to see them on a regular basis. These larger Buteo type of hawks tend to prefer grassy fields and edges along the tree line as their favorite hunting habitat. Their main food source is meadow voles.

The little by dynamic American kestrel is your best bet to move in close to you. These Robin sized members of the falcon family, not only are one of the fastest North American birds but are also one of the most beautiful.

They are a joy to have around, being so trusting and vocal. A nesting box near your yard, placed in a semi-open area, may invite them in. The dimensions for such a box are described in my last article. I've had 65% success rate over the past 40 years, so if they like the situation you offer them you are in for a treat.

Having hawks around all the time can only happen if they have the habitat they desire. There's lots to learn but it can send you soaring. Best of luck to you John, let me know how it goes, wherever you are.

Naturally yours,

Dan