Sharp-shinned Hawk vs Harris's Hawk

In short

The Sharp-shinned Hawk is a small, agile accipiter with a squared tail and short, rounded wings, while the Harris's Hawk is a larger, tricolored buteo with long legs and a distinctive white-tipped tail. Sharp-shinned Hawks are often confused with other small hawks, but the Harris's Hawk's unique coloration and structure make it more easily identifiable.

Identification tips

• Tail Shape: Sharp-shinned Hawks have a squared tail with a narrow white tip, while Harris's Hawks have a longer tail with a broad white band at the tip.
• Coloration: Look for the distinctive chestnut patches on the wings and thighs of the Harris's Hawk.
• Size and Structure: Note the smaller, more compact build of the Sharp-shinned Hawk compared to the larger, lanky Harris's Hawk.
• Behavior: Observe flight patterns; Sharp-shinned Hawks are more erratic and fast, while Harris's Hawks may hunt cooperatively.

Size

Sharp-shinned Hawks are smaller and more compact, whereas Harris's Hawks are medium-large with a lanky appearance.

Plumage

Sharp-shinned Hawks have a more uniform grayish-brown plumage with a barred tail, while Harris's Hawks are boldly marked with chocolate brown, chestnut patches on the wings and thighs, and a white-tipped tail.

Behaviour

Sharp-shinned Hawks are known for their quick, agile flight, often seen darting through trees. Harris's Hawks are more social, often hunting in groups and displaying a more deliberate flight.

Habitat

Sharp-shinned Hawks prefer dense forests and wooded areas, while Harris's Hawks are often found in open habitats like deserts and scrublands.

Voice

Sharp-shinned Hawks have a high-pitched, repetitive call, whereas Harris's Hawks have a more varied vocal range, often described as harsh and loud.