The Cornell Sharp-shinned Hawk is one of North America’s smallest but most fascinating birds of prey. Known for its agile flight and keen hunting abilities, this raptor often goes unnoticed due to its swift movements and preference for wooded habitats. Despite its size, the Sharp-shinned Hawk plays a critical role in maintaining the balance of bird populations in its environment. Found in both rural and suburban areas, including near feeders where small birds gather, this hawk’s presence is a reminder of nature’s food chain at work. Bird enthusiasts and researchers, especially those at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, have studied the species extensively, providing valuable insights into its behavior, migration patterns, and conservation status.
Overview of the Sharp-shinned Hawk
The Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus) is a member of the Accipitridae family, which includes hawks, eagles, and kites. It is the smallest hawk in North America, known for its compact build and remarkable agility in flight. The bird’s name comes from the thin, sharp-looking ridge along its legs, distinguishing it from similar species.
Physical Description
- Size: 9 to 13 inches in length with a wingspan of 17 to 22 inches
- Coloration: Adults have bluish-gray upperparts with orange-barred chests and pale underparts
- Eyes: Bright red or orange in mature birds, yellow in juveniles
- Tail: Long and narrow with dark horizontal bands, rounded at the tip
Males are noticeably smaller than females, which is a common trait among birds of prey. Juvenile hawks typically have brown upperparts and streaked brown underparts.
Habitat and Range
The Sharp-shinned Hawk prefers dense forests and wooded areas, particularly during breeding season. However, during migration or winter months, it can be found in more open habitats, including backyards and city parks.
Geographic Distribution
- Breeds throughout Canada, the northeastern and western United States
- Winters in the southern U.S., Mexico, Central America, and even parts of South America
- Common in migration corridors such as the Appalachian Mountains and Great Lakes region
Observations near Cornell University in New York suggest these hawks are frequently spotted in the region during fall migration, when their numbers peak in the northeast.
Hunting and Diet
The Sharp-shinned Hawk is an agile and determined predator. It primarily feeds on small songbirds but may also catch insects and small mammals when birds are scarce. It relies on surprise and speed to snatch its prey mid-flight or near bird feeders.
Hunting Techniques
- Uses cover of trees and shrubs to launch ambushes
- Flies with quick, shallow wingbeats followed by glides
- May perch quietly before striking with sudden bursts of speed
Common prey includes sparrows, finches, robins, and other backyard birds. Their stealthy hunting near feeders often causes a sudden hush in bird activity, signaling their presence before they are even seen.
Breeding and Nesting
The breeding behavior of the Sharp-shinned Hawk is both fascinating and secretive. They typically choose coniferous or mixed forests with dense canopies to nest, keeping their young well hidden from predators and human activity.
Nesting Habits
- Breeding season: Late spring through mid-summer
- Nests are built high in trees, often 20 to 60 feet above ground
- Constructed from twigs and lined with softer materials like bark
- Clutch size: 3 to 5 eggs
Both parents take part in raising the chicks. The female usually incubates the eggs while the male provides food. After hatching, the chicks are fed small prey items torn into pieces. Young hawks fledge around 4 to 5 weeks after hatching.
Migratory Behavior
One of the most impressive traits of the Sharp-shinned Hawk is its long-distance migration. Despite their small size, these hawks travel thousands of miles twice a year. In the eastern United States, including the area around Cornell, large numbers can be seen during fall migration, particularly along ridge tops and coastal flyways.
Migration Highlights
- Begins in late August through November (southward migration)
- Returns north from March through May
- Follows topographic features like mountains and coastlines
- Often seen at hawk watch sites like Hawk Mountain and Mount Pleasant
During migration, the Sharp-shinned Hawk uses thermal currents and updrafts to soar for long periods with minimal energy, making its journey efficient and sustainable.
Role of Cornell Lab of Ornithology
The Cornell Lab of Ornithology has contributed significantly to our understanding of the Sharp-shinned Hawk through research, tracking, and citizen science programs like eBird and Project FeederWatch. These programs collect valuable data on population trends, migration timing, and regional movement patterns.
Research Contributions
- Monitoring population shifts due to climate change and habitat loss
- Using banding stations to study survival and migration behavior
- Providing educational resources for bird identification and conservation
By involving birdwatchers and researchers alike, the lab helps ensure this species is well-documented and protected where needed.
Conservation Status
Currently, the Sharp-shinned Hawk is classified as a species of ‘Least Concern’ by conservation organizations, but that does not mean it is free from threats. Habitat destruction, collisions with windows, and pesticide exposure continue to pose risks, especially in populated areas.
Threats to the Species
- Loss of mature forest habitat for nesting and hunting
- Declines in prey species due to environmental changes
- Hazards in urban areas such as glass windows and traffic
Public awareness, responsible urban planning, and continued research are essential to ensure this agile raptor remains a thriving part of North America’s birdlife.
How to Spot a Sharp-shinned Hawk
If you’re interested in observing the Cornell Sharp-shinned Hawk, look near forest edges, in suburban yards with active feeders, or in open skies during migration seasons. Their rapid flight, small size, and long tail help distinguish them from other hawks like the Cooper’s Hawk, which is similar in appearance but slightly larger.
Identification Tips
- Note the size smaller than a crow, bigger than a jay
- Look for square-tipped tail and proportionally small head
- Watch for fast, darting flight near bird feeders
Keep a pair of binoculars and a field guide handy, and consider reporting your sightings to citizen science platforms to help researchers track the species.
The Cornell Sharp-shinned Hawk is a remarkable example of nature’s balance between predator and prey. Its small size and elusive behavior make it a unique raptor worthy of admiration and study. Whether soaring through migration routes or perching silently near a backyard feeder, this hawk leaves a lasting impression on those who are lucky enough to spot it. Thanks to ongoing research and community involvement, our understanding of the Sharp-shinned Hawk continues to grow, ensuring this swift hunter maintains its place in North America’s diverse bird population.