Cooper’s hawks are medium-sized hawks found throughout North America. With their striking plumage and swift flying skills, these accipiters are a delight to observe in the wild. Properly identifying a Cooper’s hawk takes patience and knowledge of key identification markers. This guide will explore tips and tricks for positively identifying Cooper’s hawks in the field.

Distinguishing Physical Features

Cooper’s hawks display certain physical traits and behaviors that set them apart from other bird species. Becoming familiar with these distinguishing features is the first step in identification.

Size and Shape

Medium-sized raptor: Cooper’s hawks measure 14-20 inches in length with a wingspan of 24-35 inches. They are larger than sharp-shinned hawks but smaller than northern goshawks.
Long tail: The tail is fairly long accounting for nearly half the total body length. It appears almost rounded when fanned.
Slim build: These birds have a very slender profile with a small head and thin neck. The wings are short and rounded compared to other hawk species.
Large eyes: They feature large red eyes set close together on the sides of the head. This gives them a fiercer facial expression.

Plumage

Blue-gray upperparts: Adults have a distinctive blue-gray back, wings, and crown contrasting with pale underparts. The nape may display fine rusty barring.
Red bars on underparts: Faint reddish barring occurs on the pale breast and belly. Juveniles show more pronounced barring overall.
White undertail coverts: The base of the tail feathers are white. These white undertail coverts are especially visible during flight.
Orange eyes: As juveniles mature into adults, their eye color gradually changes from yellow to orange. Eye color can help determine age.
Yellow cere: The cere at the base of the beak is yellow. The beak itself is black with a strongly hooked tip.
Long yellow legs: Their legs appear fairly long for a hawk and are bright yellow in color with black talons.

Behavioral Characteristics

Observing a hawk’s behavior can provide more clues to its identity. Cooper’s hawks exhibit some typical behavioral traits.

Flight Patterns

Agile flight: In flight, Cooper’s hawks display agile maneuvering and fast wingbeats. They are able to dart through dense cover with great speed.
Coordinated tail movements: Using their long tail as a rudder, Cooper’s hawks make tight pivots and turns when pursuing prey. The tail may fan out and contract during acrobatic moves.
Short, rounded wings: Their relatively short, broad wings allow for fast acceleration but not sustained soaring like larger buteos. Strong flapping is required to stay aloft.
Direct flight path: More often than not, Cooper’s hawks use a strong direct flight when traveling rather than circuitous soaring.

Hunting Behavior

Still-hunting from perch: A common hunting tactic is to perch-hunt, remaining perfectly still on an elevated perch while scanning for prey movement below.
Quick pursuit: When prey is spotted, Cooper’s hawks drop down from their perch and launch into rapid pursuit through dense vegetation. Brief but intense bursts of speed characterize their attacks.
Takes prey on ground: Unlike other hawk species, Cooper’s hawks will swoop down to seize prey on the ground rather than grabbing it in midair.
Favored prey: Preferred prey items include small- to medium-sized birds like doves, woodpeckers, jays, and robins. Small mammals are also taken.

Similar Species Comparisons

Cooper’s hawks can be most easily confused with two other hawk species – the sharp-shinned hawk and the northern goshawk. Comparing key characteristics helps differentiate them.

Sharp-Shinned Hawk

Smaller in size – 9 to 13 inches long
Proportionally longer tail and legs
Darker gray back contrasting with white underparts
Juveniles have heavier streaking below
Accelerates even faster when pursuing prey

Northern Goshawk

Much larger raptor – 20 to 26 inches long
Bright white eyebrows and larger, fierce orange eyes
Broad wings ideal for agile maneuvers in dense forests
Gray and white horizontal barring on the tail
Juveniles display bold spotting and streaking all over

Distribution and Habitat

Familiarity with a hawk species’ range and habitat can lend additional credence to an identification. Cooper’s hawks occupy the following areas:

Range

Permanent resident across southern Canada
Summer breeding range extends farther north to Alaska and Canada
Winters as far south as Mexico and Central America
Most common in areas with dense deciduous or mixed woodlands

Habitat

Found in open woodlands, forest edges, wooded parks and backyards
Also encroaches into semi-open country with scattered tree groves
Prefers habitat with dense cover for nesting and evading detection
Hunts in open areas closer to woodland edges

Tips for Positive Identification

When attempting to identify a hawk in the field, keep these tips in mind:

Observe size and proportions – Is it a medium or large raptor?
Look for key field marks – Blue-gray back, orange eyes, long banded tail
Note behavior – Agile flight, pursues prey on ground
Listen for calls – A loud, descending cackle
Compare to similar species – Sharp-shinned hawk, northern goshawk
Consider range and habitat – Favored habitat is mixed open woodlands

With practice, the identification process will become easier. Spending time observing known Cooper’s hawks reveals more about their appearance and actions. Soon unidentified hawks can be compared to those baseline experiences allowing for quicker ID. Patience and perseverance will lead to confidently identifying Cooper’s hawks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about identifying Cooper’s hawks:

How big are Cooper’s hawks compared to other raptors?

With a length of 14-20 inches, Cooper’s hawks are larger than sharp-shinned hawks but smaller than northern goshawks. They are slimmer in build than both red-tailed hawks and red-shouldered hawks.

What is the best way to distinguish a Cooper’s hawk from a sharp-shinned hawk?

The larger size of the Cooper’s hawk is the most reliable indicator, though proportionally longer tail and legs on the sharpie help too. Cooper’s also have a darker gray back contrasting the white underparts more sharply.

Do male and female Cooper’s hawks look different?

They do exhibit sexual dimorphism but it is relatively subtle. Females are up to 25% larger than males on average. The wings of females may also appear somewhat more broad. Juveniles of both sexes appear very similar.

Why do Cooper’s hawks have such large eyes?

Their large eyes with retina packed with visual cells allow for excellent vision to spot prey while hunting. The orange color also contributes to visual acuity. The eyes are specially adapted to their predatory lifestyle.

What is the meaning of the names “Cooper’s hawk” and “chicken hawk”?

Cooper’s hawk is named after William Cooper, one of the early founders of the New York Lyceum of Natural History. Chicken hawk refers to their proclivity to prey on small poultry. Both names refer to the same species.

Where are the best places to observe Cooper’s hawks?

Open woodlands near edges, parks, and backyards provide good viewing opportunities. Hawk watches during migration can also be productive. Listening for cackling calls can alert you to their presence. Early mornings offer the best chance to catch them hunting.

Conclusion

Cooper’s hawks are widespread raptors that occupy forest and urban habitats across North America. When perched, their medium size, slender build, long banded tail, and orange eyes help distinguish them. In flight, they display agile maneuvering and a strong direct flight pattern. By taking note of key identification features, habitat preferences, behavior, and comparisons to similar species, birders can confidently identify Cooper’s hawks in the field. With practice, anyone can hone their skills at accurately spotting this feisty forest hunter.

Cooper’s Hawk Identification

Introduction

The Cooper’s hawk is a medium-sized North American hawk that inhabits wooded and semi-open areas. With its striking pattern of slate gray upperparts and reddish brown barred underparts, this species is a stand-out against tree branches or soaring through the sky. However, identification can be tricky due to similarities to other hawk species as well as variations in plumage. This comprehensive guide will break down the key identification features to help distinguish Cooper’s hawks in all plumages and settings. With some tips and techniques, anyone can become skilled at properly identifying these forest predators whether perched, in flight, or simply from their rustic calls.

Size and Shape

Length: 14-20 in (35-50 cm)
Wingspan: 24-35 in (60-89 cm)
Medium-sized relative to other hawks
Long banded tail makes up nearly half the total length
Slim profile with small head, thin neck, short rounded wings

The Cooper’s hawk has a medium-sized build yet slender shape. At 14-20 inches long with a 24-35 inch wingspan, it is larger than its close cousin the sharp-shinned hawk but smaller than the northern goshawk. The rounded wings are relatively short for the body size lending to a compact look. A key identifier is the long tail which can appear almost square-tipped when fanned out. The total tail length represents nearly half the hawk’s total size. Overall, the small head and thin neck provide an elegant profile in flight.

Plumage

Adult Plumage

Blue-gray back, wings, and crown
White underparts with rufous barring
Long white-banded tail with black tip
Orange red eyes
Yellow cere and legs

Adult Cooper’s hawks sport a beautiful pattern of colors. The back, wings, and crown are a distinctive blue-gray hue sometimes described as slate-colored. The breast and belly have a white ground color with rufous-red transverse bars that provide camouflage amidst vegetation. The long tail displays black bands contrasting with a white background, especially visible in flight. The eyes are a brilliant orange-red color that stands out against the feathers. The cere at the base of the beak is yellow, and the legs are yellow as well with black talons.

Juvenile Plumage

Brown back and crown
Heavily streaked and barred below
Yellow eyes transitioning to orange
Yellow cere and legs

Younger Cooper’s hawks show more modest colors in their first year before attaining adult plumage by year two. The back and crown appear brown rather than gray. Below, the breast and belly display heavy brown streaking and barring rather than the neater rufous bars of the adult. The eyes start out a pale yellow before gradually transitioning to the fiery orange-red of maturity. The cere and legs remain yellow from a young age. The tail shows less defined banding initially.

Flight Profile

Direct and swift flight pattern
Agile maneuvers through dense cover
Rapid wingbeats with occasional glides
Uses tail as rudder during acrobatics

In flight, Cooper’s hawks reveal their aerial mastery derived from a lifetime of hunting other birds. Their flight pattern is very direct as they flap swiftly from perch to perch. The agility of their flight is readily apparent as they twist and turn through branches and vegetation in hot pursuit of prey. The wingbeats are quick with occasional short glides and swoops. The long tail acts as a rudder to allow tight pivots and diving stoops. Watch for the tail fanning during dramatic chasing maneuvers. The broad wings provide lift for aerial agility.

Hunting Behavior

Perch hunts by sitting quietly and scanning
Rapid acceleration and pursuit of prey
Crashes through dense cover in pursuit
Takes prey on ground unlike most hawks
Favored prey are small birds and mammals

Cooper’s hawks reveal unique hunting habits specialized for rapid ambush of other birds. A common strategy is perch hunting where they sit quietly on an elevated perch while scanning below for prey movement. When prey is spotted, the hawk accelerates forward at top speed, crashing through branches and vegetation. The pursuit is more direct and swift compared to other hawk species. Interestingly, Cooper’s hawks will swoop down to grab prey sitting on the ground unlike most hawks that snatch prey midair. Favored targets include smaller birds like jays, doves, woodpeckers and various small mammals.

Habitat

Found in open deciduous or mixed woodlands
Also semi-open areas with scattered trees
Parks, backyards, edges of forests and farms
Prefers habitat with dense cover

Cooper’s hawks frequent a range of wooded habitats from mature forests to patchy urban woods. Open deciduous forests and mixed woodlands provide ideal habitat. You may also find them in semi-open country interspersed with groves of trees. Backyards, parks, and edges between fields and forests are hunting grounds. Dense cover for nesting and roosting are a must wherever they reside. Older nests of crows, squirrels or other larger birds are often reused.

Range

Year round through southern Canada and U.S.
Summer range extends to Alaska and northern Canada
Winters as far south as Mexico and Central America
Most widespread in eastern half of North America

Cooper’s hawks live year round across the southern Canadian provinces and northern U.S. Their breeding grounds expand significantly farther north during summer, extending well into Canada and Alaska. Come winter, the northern migrants will head as far south as Mexico and Central America. The largest populations occupy the eastern half of the continent with fewer in the southwest and western mountains.

Similar Species

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Smaller species – 9 to 13 inches
More slender and elongated profile
Longer tail and legs relative to body
Dark gray back contrasts white underparts
Juveniles more heavily streaked below

Northern Goshawk

Much larger species – 20 to 26 inches
Bold white eyebrows
Broad wings ideal for forest pursuit
Thicker legs bright orange-red
Juveniles display heavy spotting and barring

Cooper’s Hawk vs. Red-shouldered Hawk

Red-shouldered hawk has a longer neck and smaller head
Bold black and white bands on the tail
Soars more frequently
Nests in wetlands unlike Cooper’s forest sites
Calls are a piercing, whistled kee-yaaar

Tips for Identification

Note size – medium profile in length and bulk
Look for long banded tail with white base
Watch flight style – direct with agile moves
Check for bold streaks and bars on underparts
Listen for cackling kak-kak-kak calls
Consider habitat – open deciduous woods

Conclusion

The Cooper’s hawk is a widespread woodland raptor of North America known for its agile flying and woodland hunting abilities. Correct identification relies on noting key features such as size, plumage patterns, graceful flight, and preferred habitat. With practice observing Cooper’s hawks in the field, identification becomes straightforward. Birders should take advantage of opportunities to view this forest dweller up close and appreciate its mastery of the skies.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I distinguish a Cooper’s hawk from a sharp-shinned hawk?

The Cooper’s hawk is distinctly larger than the sharp-shinned with a broader wingspan and longer tail. The sharp-shinned also has longer legs relative to its body size. Plumage-wise, the Cooper’s dark gray back contrasts more with the white underparts.

What is the best way to identify a Cooper’s hawk in flight?

In flight, note the direct and agile flight pattern as the hawk adeptly maneuvers through dense vegetation. Also look for the long banded tail with a white base, especially visible from below. The relatively short broad wings and rounded wingtips are also diagnostic.

Do Cooper’s hawks only live in forests?

While they certainly favor forested areas, Cooper’s hawks can adapt to semi-open habitats as well. Tree groves near open country, urban parks, and backyard woods may all host Cooper’s hawks provided there is enough cover for nesting and roosting.

How can I attract Cooper’s hawks to my yard?

Providing a good source of water and plants that attract small birds and mammals will make your yard more appealing. Hawks also like elevated perches such as fences or posts for hunting. Leaving some dense thickets or brush piles provides cover.

What is the best way to observe a Cooper’s hawk up close?

Your best chance is to silently watch one that is perched and focused on hunting. Approach cautiously and do not make sudden movements. Sitting quietly near their preferred perches allows you to observe them in action.

Why are Cooper’s hawks called “chicken hawks”?

One of the Cooper’s hawk’s favored foods is smaller birds like chickens, so the nickname “chicken hawk” refers to their proclivity to hunt domestic poultry and game fowl. This predatory tendency led them to be perceived negatively by farmers.