Harris Hawk

Harris Hawk

Harris Hawk

Did You Know?

Harris Hawks exhibit an unusual behaviour called 'stacking' or 'backstanding' when one hawk will perch on a cactus and 2-3 others will stand on his back. In the habitat where Harris Hawks live, there is a lack of tall trees and this behaviour helps them to spot prey and predators

All about Harris Hawk

Order:
Accipitriformes
Family:
Accipitridae
Group:
Parabuteo
Lifespan:
14-25 years
Gestation:
Eggs incubate in 31-36 days
Habitat:
Sparse woodland, semi-desert, savannah, shrubland and marshes
Diet:
Birds, lizards, mammals and large insects
Conservation Status:
Least Concern

Fun Facts!

The Harris Hawk (Parabuteo unicinctus) is also known by its nickname 'The wolf of the skies' because they hunt as a pack rather than individuals. A unique trait in the bird of prey world. They are a popular choice of bird to use within falconry, as they are social, intelligent and easy to train.

Trained Harris Hawks have been used to remove unwanted pigeon populations from Trafalgar Square and the tennis courts at Wimbledon.

Harris Hawks don't have a specific breeding season, instead breeding throughout the year and producing 2-3 clutches a year.

The long legs of the Harris Hawk are covered in tough skin and due to this, they are able to perch on cacti.

 

rabbit
guinea-pig