Short-tailed Hawk vs Ferruginous Hawk

The Short-tailed Hawk and Ferruginous Hawk can be differentiated primarily by their size and plumage. The Ferruginous Hawk is larger and has distinctive rusty coloration on its shoulders and back, while the Short-tailed Hawk is smaller with a more variable plumage, including light and dark morphs. Both species have different soaring behaviors and habitat preferences.

1. Size: Ferruginous Hawk is larger. 2. Coloration: Look for rusty shoulders on Ferruginous Hawk. 3. Morphs: Short-tailed Hawk has light and dark morphs. 4. Behavior: Note soaring style; Short-tailed Hawk soars like a vulture. 5. Habitat: Ferruginous prefers open grasslands; Short-tailed can be in varied habitats.

The Ferruginous Hawk is notably larger than the Short-tailed Hawk, with a wingspan that can exceed 1.5 meters, compared to the Short-tailed Hawk's more compact size.

The Ferruginous Hawk typically exhibits a rusty or ferruginous coloration on its shoulders and back, especially in light morphs, and has a pale head. The Short-tailed Hawk has light and dark morphs; the light morph has a white underbody with dark wingtips, while the dark morph is mostly dark brown. The tail of the Short-tailed Hawk is of average length and not particularly short.

The Short-tailed Hawk often soars at great heights with flat wings and slightly upturned wingtips, resembling a vulture. It hunts by hanging motionless in the wind and diving steeply at prey. The Ferruginous Hawk, on the other hand, is known for its powerful flight and often hunts from perches or low flights over open areas.

The Short-tailed Hawk is found in a variety of habitats, including tall, dense forests and open areas with scattered trees. The Ferruginous Hawk prefers open grasslands and prairies, often avoiding heavily forested areas.