Hawaiian Hawk vs Short-tailed Hawk

In short

The Hawaiian Hawk and Short-tailed Hawk can be distinguished by their geographic range, as the Hawaiian Hawk is endemic to Hawaii while the Short-tailed Hawk is found in the Americas. In terms of plumage, both species exhibit light and dark morphs, but the Hawaiian Hawk often appears more uniformly colored. Behaviorally, the Short-tailed Hawk is known for its high soaring with slightly upturned wing-tips, which can mimic a vulture.

Identification tips

1. Location: Hawaiian Hawk is only found in Hawaii; Short-tailed Hawk is found in the Americas. 2. Soaring behavior: Short-tailed Hawk soars with slightly upturned wing-tips, resembling a vulture. 3. Plumage: Look for more uniform coloration in Hawaiian Hawk versus the distinct morphs of the Short-tailed Hawk.

Size

Both species are medium-sized hawks, but size is not a reliable field mark as they are similar in overall dimensions.

Plumage

Both species have light and dark morphs. The Hawaiian Hawk's plumage tends to be more uniform, while the Short-tailed Hawk's morphs are more distinct, with the dark morph appearing almost black and the light morph having a contrasting white underside.

Behaviour

The Short-tailed Hawk is noted for soaring at great heights with flat wings and slightly upturned tips, often resembling a vulture. It hunts by hanging motionless in the wind. The Hawaiian Hawk is less often seen soaring and is more likely to be observed perching.

Habitat

The Hawaiian Hawk is restricted to the Hawaiian Islands, primarily in forested areas. In contrast, the Short-tailed Hawk inhabits a variety of environments across the Americas, including forests, savannas, and even suburban areas.