Buteo lagopus
This Arctic-nesting hawk follows fall frosts south to overwinter in parts of southern Canada and the northern states. It is well adapted to cold climates, having feet that are fully feathered right down to the toes. Foraging Rough-legged Hawks can easily be identified at great distances-they are one of the few large hawks to routinely hover over prey. Populations of these hawks cycle with the populations of northern lemmings. When the number of small mammals is high, Rough-legs can produce up to seven young; in years of low mammal numbers, a pair may be fortunate to produce a single chick. The name lagopus, meaning 'hare's (or rabbit's) foot,' refers to this bird's distinctive feathered feet. |
I.D.: Sexes similar: feet are feathered to the toes. Light phase adult: light, black-tipped tail; wide, dark 'belt'; streaked breast; dark upperparts; light head. Dark phase adult: dark wing linings, body and underparts; light flight feathers and undertail; very dark tail. Immature: unstreaked breast; unmarked undertail. In flight: light underwings with dark 'elbow' patches; long wings; frequently hovers. Size: L 19-24 in. (48-61 cm); W 48-56 in. (122-142 cm). Range: irregularly common winter resident and migrant in the central and southern U.S. Rockies; uncommon migrant and rare winter visitor in the Canadian and northern U.S. Rockies. Habitat: Winter: open grasslands, agricultural fields, meadows and sagebrush flats with few trees. Nesting: in the Arctic; on steep cliff ledges; occasionally in tall conifers; nest is built with grass and sticks; male or female incubates 2-7 eggs for up to 31 days; brood size depends on food availability. Feeding: flies to a potential hunting area, then hangs and hovers, searching for prey; primarily eats small rodents; occasionally eats birds, amphibians, reptiles and large insects. Voice: alarm call is a cat-like kee-eer, usually dropping at the end. Similar Species: Red-tailed, Swainson's and Ferruginous hawks: rarely hover; adults lack the dark 'elbow' patches and the dark, banded tail. Northern Harrier: slimmer; long tail; facial disc. |
