White-tailed Hawk Similar Species Comparison

Adult light morph

In flight note short, white tail with dark band near the tip and broad wings that are pointed at the tips. Light morph birds have dark primaries, white inner wing linings, and a white belly.

Adult light morph

Perched birds show a gray head, white belly, and dark wings with a chestnut patch on the shoulder. The wings extend beyond the tail when perched.

Adult light morph

Adult dark morph

Adult

Often soars in wide lazy circles with its wings held in a V or dihedral. Adults are dark above with chestnut shoulders and its namesake white tail marked with a black terminal band.

Immature

Immature light morph

Juvenile

When perched, note that the wings extend beyond the tail. Juvenile birds are dark above with a white breast patch.

Adult light morph

Juvenile

Juvenile

Juvenile birds in flight have a white tail, a dark head, a white throat, and dark inner wing linings. Acquires adult plumage after 4 years.

Adult light morph

Juvenile

Juveniles are dark overall with a white throat patch and dark belly. The tail is very faintly barred.

Adult light morph

Habitat

Found in open country, primarily savanna, prairie, and dry areas with mesquite, cacti, and bushes; very rarely in open forest.