Large raptor of dry open country; light morph much more common than dark morph. Light adult distinctly rufous above with blue-gray flight feathers, white breast, and rufous barring on sides. Tail very pale with light rufous upperside. Light juvenile lacks rufous tones of adult but still shows pale tail and clean white breast. Dark morph rich brown overall with pale tail and white undersides on flight feathers. Wings show a dihedral or V-shape when soaring; wings rather long. Usually seen singly. Feeds on rodents.
Sign in to see your stats
Choose a region to view Weekly Bar Chart
Learn more about Ferruginous Hawk from…
Comprehensive life histories for all bird species and families.
Explore Ferruginous Hawk