Species · GBIF taxon 2480621
Cooper's Hawk
Accipiter cooperiiAlso known as Chicken Hawk, Swift Hawk, Big Blue Darter
Cooper's Hawks are master aerial acrobats of the forest, built for high-speed chases through dense branches to capture medium-sized birds. These stealthy raptors have adapted remarkably well to suburban neighborhoods, where backyard bird feeders provide a reliable source of prey. During the breeding season, pairs build bulky stick nests high in leafy trees, defending their territory with nasal, cackling alarm calls.
PredatoryUrban-AdaptedDiurnal
- diet
- Primarily medium-sized birds such as doves, starlings, and pigeons, along with small mammals like chipmunks.
- family
- Accipitridae
- threats
- Collisions with windows and vehicles, secondary rodenticide poisoning, and habitat fragmentation.
- life Span
- Typically 3 to 8 years in the wild.
LC
Sharp talons and beak can cause injury if handled; observe from a safe distance.
- Backyard Bird Feeders: Look for them perched quietly nearby waiting to ambush visiting songbirds.
- Flight Identification: Distinguish them from sharp-shinned hawks by their rounded tails and larger heads.
- Nesting Season: Keep a respectful distance during spring to avoid disturbing nesting pairs.