Photo by sdc140 on Pixabay
Raptors at Long Lake Park
A raptor is a bird of prey, a strong bird that feeds on smaller animals. The difference between raptors and other birds that also eat animals (like gulls, for example), is that raptors use not only their hooked beaks, but also their sharp curved talons to catch their prey.
The fields, forests, and open skies surrounding the Art Lazarus Nature Trail at Long Lake Park provide excellent habitat for a variety of birds of prey. These raptors, including hawks, falcons, eagles, and owls—play an essential role in the ecosystem by keeping rodent and small animal populations in balance.
Open meadows near the trail attract soaring species such as Red-tailed Hawks and Broad-winged Hawks, while the forest edges provide hunting grounds for Cooper’s Hawks and Sharp-shinned Hawks. The park’s wetlands and lake also draw fish-eating raptors like Ospreys and Bald Eagles.
Birds of prey highlight the ecological richness of Long Lake Park, where diverse habitats support both resident and migratory raptors throughout the year. A different raptor is featured here each week. At another QR code station along the trail, you can learn more about a variety of OWLS that reside in the area.
Red-Tailed Hawk
(Buteo jamaicensis)
The Red-Tailed Hawk is one of the most common and widespread raptors in North America, frequently seen soaring above or perched near the Art Lazarus Nature Trail at Long Lake Park. Known for their distinctive reddish tail feathers and powerful hunting abilities, these hawks play an essential role in the park’s ecosystem as skilled predators.
Size and Appearance
Red-tailed hawks are large birds of prey, measuring 18 to 26 inches in length with a wingspan of about 3.5 to 4.5 feet. Adults are easily recognized by their rusty-red tail, broad rounded wings, and a pale underside with a dark band across the belly. Their plumage can vary but typically includes brownish upperparts and a streaked chest.
Habitat Near the Art Lazarus Trail
Red-tailed hawks thrive in a variety of habitats, including open fields, forest edges, meadows, and along trails such as the Art Lazarus Nature Trail. They prefer areas that offer tall perches—like large trees, utility poles, or fence posts—from which they can survey the landscape for prey. The park’s mix of wooded areas and open spaces provides excellent hunting grounds.
Diet
These hawks are carnivorous predators with a diet mainly consisting of:
- Small to medium-sized mammals, such as rabbits, squirrels, mice, and voles
- Birds, including songbirds and waterfowl
- Reptiles and amphibians on occasion
They hunt by soaring high or sitting silently on a perch, then swooping down swiftly to capture prey with their sharp talons.
Behavior
Red-tailed hawks are mostly diurnal, active during the day, especially at dawn and dusk. They are known for their loud, distinctive descending scream often heard echoing through the forest. These hawks are territorial and build large nests in tall trees, often reusing them year after year. During breeding season, pairs perform aerial displays, including steep dives and talon locking.
Ecological Role in Long Lake Park
As top aerial predators, red-tailed hawks help control populations of rodents and other small animals, which benefits plant communities by reducing herbivory and seed predation. Their hunting also supports a balanced food web by influencing prey behavior and numbers. Additionally, hawk nests provide habitat and shelter for other species such as insects and small birds.
In Summary:
The Red-Tailed Hawk is a powerful and ever-watchful presence along the Art Lazarus Nature Trail, where its keen eyes and swift flight help maintain balance in the Long Lake Park ecosystem. Their role as efficient predators makes them vital contributors to the health and diversity of local wildlife, while their striking appearance and calls enrich the natural experience for park visitors.
