Hawks of Hollywood: Soaring High Above the City of Angels
Los Angeles, the land of dreams and endless sunshine, is not just home to celebrities and traffic jams. It's also a surprisingly decent spot for birdwatchers. And while you might be more inclined to spot a starlet than a sparrow, there's a whole world of feathered friends up there, including some pretty impressive hawks.
Red-tailed Hawks: The OG of LA Skies
Let’s start with the classic: the Red-tailed Hawk. This bird is basically the Brad Pitt of the hawk world – it’s everywhere, it’s iconic, and it’s pretty hard to miss. With that signature red tail (duh!), it’s like the bird version of a celebrity wearing sunglasses. They're adaptable little creatures, so you can find them chilling in parks, hanging out in the suburbs, or even doing a fly-by over the Hollywood sign.
Cooper’s Hawks: The Bullies of the Bird World
Next up, we have the Cooper’s Hawk, the high school bully of the avian kingdom. These guys are quick, agile, and have a penchant for terrorizing pigeons. If you see a hawk chasing a flock of birds around like a kid chasing a soccer ball, chances are it’s a Cooper’s. They’re also pretty good-looking, in a dark and mysterious kind of way.
Sharp-shinned Hawks: The Tiny Terrorists
Don’t let their size fool you. Sharp-shinned Hawks are like the chihuahua of the hawk world – small but mighty. They’re incredibly fast and can take down prey much larger than themselves. It’s like watching a tiny fighter jet in action. These little guys are often overlooked, but they’re actually pretty cool once you get to know them.
Beyond the Basics: Other Hawk-y Visitors
While Red-tailed, Cooper’s, and Sharp-shinned Hawks are the most common in LA, there are other hawk species that make occasional appearances. You might spot a Ferruginous Hawk, which is basically a giant, fluffy red-tailed hawk, or a Red-shouldered Hawk, known for its distinctive call. And if you're really lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a rare and elusive Northern Goshawk.
So, how do you spot these feathered friends?
Well, first of all, you need to have your eyes peeled. Look up, look around, and keep an eye out for those telltale signs of a hawk – a sharp silhouette against the sky, a piercing gaze, or the distinctive shape of their wings. And if you’re really serious about birdwatching, invest in a good pair of binoculars.
Remember: Hawks are wild animals, so it’s important to observe them from a distance and avoid disturbing their habitat. Enjoy their beauty and grace, and let them continue to soar freely in the skies above the City of Angels.
How to Hawk-Watching FAQs
- How to identify a Red-tailed Hawk: Look for that signature red tail! They also have broad wings and a rounded head.
- How to attract hawks to your backyard: Plant native shrubs and trees to provide potential nesting sites and food sources.
- How to take good photos of hawks: Use a telephoto lens, a tripod, and be patient.
- How to avoid conflicts with hawks: Keep your pets indoors, especially during nesting season.
- How to learn more about hawks: Visit your local birdwatching club or check out online resources.