Swainson’s Hawk

– A Majestic Bird of Prey

Swainson’s Hawk is a large bird of prey that belongs to the genus Buteo, which includes other hawks and eagles. This remarkable species is commonly found in North America, where it migrates from its breeding grounds in western North America down to South America.

Basic Description
The Swainson’s Hawk has a wingspan ranging between 4-5 feet (1.2-1.6 meters) and can grow up to 20 inches (51 cm) long. The hawk has brown upperparts with white underparts that are streaked with brown. It also has a distinctive white rump patch when seen from behind.

Where To Find This Bird
Swainson’s Hawks breed in open grasslands or prairies across western North America, including parts of Canada, the United States, and Mexico. During their migration to South America, they usually fly over deserts as well as mountain ranges such as the Andes.

Habitat
This hawk prefers nesting on trees but also uses artificial structures like telephone poles or wind turbines for perching spots while hunting for prey above crop fields or meadows.

Food
The Swainson’s Hawk feeds mainly on rodents such as mice and voles but may also eat insects or reptiles if available during their migration journey through Central and South American habitats.

Cool Facts
One cool fact about this bird is that they migrate thousands of miles each year using soaring flight patterns created by thermal currents rising from warm ground temperatures below them! Another interesting characteristic is that both males and females participate in building nests together before laying eggs!

In conclusion, the Swainson’s Hawk is an impressive bird species known for its striking appearance and incredible migrations across two continents every year! So next time you’re out exploring nature around Western North America or even farther south along coastal regions like Chilean Patagonia be sure to keep an eye out for these magnificent birds of prey!