Roadside Hawk vs Grey Hawk

In short

The Roadside Hawk and Grey Hawk can be distinguished by their tail patterns and overall coloration. The Roadside Hawk has a more uniform gray-brown appearance with a less distinct tail pattern, while the Grey Hawk features a distinctive black tail with white bands and a 'U' pattern at the base. Both species have similar shapes but differ in plumage details.

Identification tips

1. Look for the 'U' pattern on the tail of the Grey Hawk, visible in both adults and juveniles. 2. Note the finely barred gray and white underside of the Grey Hawk compared to the more uniform appearance of the Roadside Hawk. 3. Observe the flight pattern; the Grey Hawk has a more accipiter-like flight with rapid beats and glides.

Size

Both species are medium-sized hawks, but the Grey Hawk is slightly larger on average, with females noticeably larger than males.

Plumage

The Roadside Hawk has a more uniform gray-brown plumage with less distinct barring, while the Grey Hawk displays a finely barred gray and white underside and a black tail with narrow gray-brown terminal bands and three white proximal bands. The 'U' pattern on the dorsal surface at the base of the tail is diagnostic for the Grey Hawk.

Behaviour

The Grey Hawk's flight is very accipiter-like, consisting of a series of rapid beats followed by a short glide, which is less typical for the Roadside Hawk.

Habitat

Both species can be found in similar habitats, but the Roadside Hawk is more commonly seen along roadsides, as its name suggests.