The call of the “chicken hawk” is a familiar sound to many, but what bird is making that sound? The name “chicken hawk” itself is a bit misleading, as it refers colloquially to several species of hawks that don’t primarily prey on chickens. However, there is one common hawk whose screaming cry earns it the “chicken hawk” label more than any other: the Red-tailed Hawk.
The Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) is widespread across North America and known for its trademark high-pitched, raspy screams. But what exactly does a Red-tailed Hawk sound like, and why does it make these vocalizations? Let’s break it down.
The Iconic Red-Tailed Hawk Call
The Red-tailed Hawk’s signature scream is often described as sounding like “kee-eeee-arrr” or “tsee-eeee-arr.” This far-carrying call typically lasts around 2-3 seconds as it descends in pitch To many ears, it brings to mind the sound of a steam whistle
This species’ loud, screeching cries are used for communication and territorial defense. The calls carry for long distances, allowing the hawks to warn rival raptors away from their nesting and hunting grounds. The screams are most frequently heard while the hawk is soaring high in the sky.
Interestingly, the shrill vocalizations of Red-tailed Hawks are often used in movies and TV shows to dub over Bald Eagle footage. The eagle’s own weak, chirping calls lack the dramatic impact that the film industry would like to portray. The Red-tailed Hawk’s scream evokes a much more fierce, intimidating image.
Regional Vocal Variations
While the basic features of the Red-tailed Hawk’s scream are consistent across its range, some subtle regional dialects may exist The calls of birds from the Northeast, Midwest, South, and West may vary slightly based on habitat, genetics, and other factors. An East Coast bird’s scream may differ faintly from that of a West Coast bird, for example.
Young hawk calls also sound distinct from adult vocalizations. Juvenile Red-tailed Hawks use higher-pitched, more pleading cries to beg for food from their parents. As the young birds mature, their voices deepen to the more robust screams of adults.
Uses of Red-Tailed Hawk Vocalizations
Red-tailed Hawk screams serve a variety of important functions:
Territorial Defense
Screaming calls advertise occupancy of the hawks’ nesting and hunting grounds. Rival hawks hear these proclamations of territory and are warned not to intrude. This prevents unnecessary conflicts between birds.
Pair Bonding
Courting pairs may use elegant, harmonized screaming duets to strengthen their bond during breeding season. These coordinated vocalizations help synchronize the birds’ mating activities.
Communicating With Young
Adult Red-tailed Hawks scream to their chicks for a number of reasons, including alerting them to the arrival of food and warning of impending dangers. The young use their begging screams to request food from their parents.
Mimicry by Other Species
While Red-tailed Hawks are not known for their own mimicry abilities, other birds sometimes copy their iconic screams. Great Horned Owls may incorporate parts of the Red-tailed Hawk scream into their own calls, possibly to ward off potential nest predators like the larger hawks. Blue Jays are also able to produce remarkably accurate imitations of the hawk’s cry.
So the next time you hear a shrill, descending scream overhead, listen closely. If it sounds like “kee-eeee-arrr,” chances are it’s a vocal Red-tailed Hawk, the classic “chicken hawk,” defining its territory and communicating with others of its kind. With a little practice, you’ll be able to distinguish the Red-tailed Hawk’s iconic scream from the calls of other raptor species.
Tale of the Whale Early Bird:Spring 2025 4 p.m. – 5 p.m. 20% off entire check Not valid on special events and functions. Excludes alcoholic and specialty bar beverages. Must be seated by 5 p.m. to receive discount.
Monday – Steve Hauser Tuesday – John Baldwin Wednesday & Thursday – Joey Wood Friday – Jessica Diaz Saturday – Melanie Brewer – Bortz Come Join us all Summer Long!
Hawk Alarm (for chickens)
FAQ
What is the difference between a hawk and a chicken hawk?
In the United States, chickenhawk or chicken hawk is an unofficial designation for three species of North American hawks in the family Accipitridae: Cooper’s hawk (also called a quail hawk), the sharp-shinned hawk, and the Buteo species red-tailed hawk. The term “chicken hawk”, however, is inaccurate.
What noises do hawks make?
Adults make a hoarse, screaming kee-eeeee-arr. It lasts 2-3 seconds and is usually given while soaring. During courtship, they also make a shrill chwirk, sometimes giving several of these calls in a row.
What bird is mistaken for a hawk?
Similar SpeciesTurkey Vulture
From a distance a soaring Turkey Vulture might look like a Red-tailed Hawk, but Turkey Vultures have longer, more rectangular wings, which the birds hold above horizontal, forming an easily visible V. Turkey Vultures are also much less steady when they soar.
What does a red tailed hawk sound like?
Red-tailed Hawks (Buteo jamaicensis) make a call that is a hoarse, raspy scream that descends in pitch, which lasts roughly 2 – 3 seconds. Personally, I think it’s one of the BEST sounds of ANY bird! This call can be transcribed as “ kree-eee-ar ” or “ tsee-eeee-arr. ” Some people describe it as sounding similar to a steam whistle.
What sounds do Hawks make?
Squeals – Made by young hawks begging for food or as feeding calls between mates. Clucking – A softer clucking or chuckling call used by mates communicating on a nest or roosting area. Cackles – Loud, rattling cackle sounds made during agitated territorial displays.
How do you identify a red tailed hawk?
Below, you will learn how to EASILY identify the calls and sounds that a Red-tailed Hawk makes! My guess is that after listening, you will realize you have heard one before. Red-tailed Hawks (Buteo jamaicensis) make a call that is a hoarse, raspy scream that descends in pitch, which lasts roughly 2 – 3 seconds.
What does a red tailed hawk call?
These calls are of young birds, doing what they do best – begging. So there you have all the information about the Red-tailed Hawk. If you are struggling to identify one because you can’t see its tail, then listen to its call. If it sends shivers down your spine then chances are, its a Red-Tailed Hawk.
Why do Hawks make loud alarm calls?
When hawks spot a threat like a predator approaching their nest, they use loud alarm calls. These calls signal offspring to take cover and may recruit other hawks to mob the intruder. Alarm calls are often coupled with direct attacks on the predator. The red-tailed hawk has a hoarse, guttural “kak-kak-kak” alarm call.
What does a red tailed hawk scream like?
The red-tailed hawk’s alarm screech is frequently used in movies and TV shows as a generic eagle cry. This species has a trademark raspy, piercing scream that carries over long distances. Some species like the red-shouldered hawk and Cooper’s hawk have scream-like calls. These screams sound higher-pitched and more urgent than screeches.