Harris’s Hawk Parabuteo unicinctus: Often called the “wolves of the sky”, Harris’s hawks are commonly found hunting in cooperative groups in the Southwest desert. This social behavior is rare among raptor species, making them ideal for falconers and education programs. The large white band across the upper tail feathers and brunt orange fire pattern on the wings make them distinctive among birds of prey.

Red-Tailed Hawk Buteo jamaicensis: The red-tailed hawk is our most common raptor species in North America due to her ability to adapt to different environments. They prefer to hunt ground quarry in open fields and will often be seen soaring the thermals. Not all red-tails will have the brick colored tail feathers. The most distinctive marking will be the black leading edge of the wings seen from below.

Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus: The lanner falcon is commonly found in open, arid terrain of Africa, southeast Europe and Asia. They primarily prey on other birds in flight, occasionally hunting small mammals, reptiles and large insects. One of the oldest species of falcons, they have been used in falconry for thousands of years.

Yellow-Headed Vulture Cathartes burrovianus: Cousin to the turkey vulture, the yellow-headed vulture is common to Central & South America. Their most distinct feature is the brilliant orange and yellow colored head. They primarily feed on carrion found through their extraordinary sense of smell but are known to occasionally hunt small prey. One adaption that is remarkable, these vultures will urinate on their legs to disinfect after feeding.

How you can help

• Never throw anything out your car window, including organic materials.
• Never use lead bullets.
• Never use rat, gopher, pigeon or any other poisons.
• Build nest boxes.
• Eat organic, pesticides poison humans, animals and the environment as a whole.
• Put reflectors on large windows.
• Support local conservation efforts.