The rainbow tailed hawk is a large sized bird of prey. The bird was named after professor Rainbow Tail, who first discovered the species in the late 1800s. The rainbow tailed hawk is most commonly found in United States of America but it has also been spotted in Asia.
Unlike other hawks, the rainbow tailed hawk is heavier and weighs between ten to fifteen pounds. Like many other hawks the rainbow tailed hawk’s wingspan can reach up to five feet. A unique characteristic this hawk has is its larger talons which makes it easier to catch prey. The rainbow tailed hawk can only fly as fast as 30 miles per hour due to its heavier weight making it the slowest flying hawk. However, research has shown that this hawk uses its weight and huge talons to its advantage instead of speed.
The rainbow tailed hawk can live in many different habitats such as forests, mountains, deserts, and coastal regions. The hawk has been living in these habitats since there is an abundant food source. They also choose these habitats since they can build their nests without worrying for their young.
The rainbow tailed hawk is carnivorous and eats anything it can kill. The hawk’s diet consists of small rodents, fish, reptiles, insects, and small mammals. The rainbow tailed hawk is notoriously famous for killing and devouring pets. These hawks have enough strength to lift medium sized dogs weighing up to 50 pounds. Due to recent attacks on family pets the American Humane Society has issued warnings to not leave your pet alone outside in fear of these vicious predators.
Navdeep Singh