The Red-tailed Hawk is a large bird of prey found throughout North America. It is easily recognized by its distinctive reddish-brown tail and broad wings. These hawks typically measure about 18 to 26 inches in length and have a wingspan of 45 to 52 inches. They inhabit a variety of environments, including forests, deserts, and urban areas. Red-tailed Hawks are known for their keen eyesight, which allows them to spot small mammals from great distances. They primarily feed on rodents, rabbits, and other small animals. Their characteristic call, a series of sharp, piercing notes, is often heard in the wild, making them a familiar sound in their habitats.