Majestic Migrators of Maine
The broad-winged hawk is a species of raptor that is native to the state of Maine and is a frequent visitor to the area during its migrations. The broad-winged hawk is a medium-sized raptor that ranges in size from 15-20 inches in length with a wingspan of approximately 38-44 inches. It is a dark-brown hawk with white patches on its flanks and has a distinctive white tail with a broad black band at the tip.
Broad-winged hawks are found throughout Maine during the warmer months of the year, typically breeding in the northern and western parts of the state. They migrate south to warmer climates during the winter, often gathering in large numbers at traditional migration sites, known as hawk watches. The birds typically migrate between August and October, with the largest concentrations occurring during the month of September.
Identifying Characteristics of Broad-Winged Hawks
The broad-winged hawk is a medium-sized raptor that ranges in size from 15-20 inches in length with a wingspan of approximately 38-44 inches. It is a dark-brown hawk with white patches on its flanks and has a distinctive white tail with a broad black band at the tip.
The broad-winged hawk has a unique flight pattern, with slow, flapping wing beats interspersed with glides. It is often seen soaring in the thermals, or columns of rising warm air, which the hawks use to gain altitude.
The broad-winged hawk has a variety of calls, including a loud, piercing “kee-aarr,” which is used to defend its territory. It also has a variety of screeches, which are used for communication between individuals.
Nests and Breeding Habits of Broad-Winged Hawks
Broad-winged hawks typically breed in the northern and western parts of Maine, where they build large nests in the tops of trees. The female typically lays two to three eggs, which are incubated for about 28 to 32 days.
The young hawks stay in the nest for approximately five to six weeks before they are able to fly. The parents will often feed the young hawks for several weeks after they have left the nest.
Migration of Broad-Winged Hawks
The broad-winged hawk migrates south to warmer climates during the winter, often gathering in large numbers at traditional migration sites, known as hawk watches. The birds typically migrate between August and October, with the largest concentrations occurring during the month of September.
During migration, the hawks will often travel in large flocks, which can number in the thousands of individuals. The flocks usually travel during the day, soaring in the thermals and gliding for long periods of time.
Conservation of Broad-Winged Hawks
The broad-winged hawk is listed as a species of special concern in Maine and is protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. The birds are threatened by a variety of factors, including habitat loss, deforestation, and pesticide use.
The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife has implemented a variety of conservation measures to protect the broad-winged hawk, including habitat protection, research programs, and public education initiatives.
By raising awareness of the importance of the broad-winged hawk, and by taking steps to protect its habitat, we can ensure that these majestic migrators continue to soar across the state of Maine for generations to come.
FAQs
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What Is a Broad-Winged Hawk?
Answer: A broad-winged hawk is a medium-sized North American hawk with a wingspan of up to 4 feet, and a body length of up to 18 inches. They have a dark brown back, white underparts, and a reddish-brown tail.
Where Can I See Broad-Winged Hawks in Maine?
Answer: Broad-winged hawks can be found across Maine, but they are most abundant in the northern and eastern regions of the state.
What Time of Year Can Broad-Winged Hawks Be Seen?
Answer: Broad-winged hawks can be seen in Maine from late April through early August.
What Do Broad-Winged Hawks Eat?
Answer: Broad-winged hawks eat small mammals, such as mice, voles, and squirrels, as well as birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects.
How Do Broad-Winged Hawks Hunt?
Answer: Broad-winged hawks hunt by perching on a high vantage point and scanning the ground for prey. They then swoop down to catch their prey in mid-air.
What Is the Migratory Pattern of Broad-Winged Hawks?
Answer: Broad-winged hawks migrate south to Central and South America in the late summer and early fall months.
How Do Broad-Winged Hawks Communicate?
Answer: Broad-winged hawks communicate with a variety of calls, including a “klee-klee-klee” alarm call and a “kee-ah” territorial call.
What Is the Life Span of a Broad-Winged Hawk?
Answer: The life span of a broad-winged hawk is typically between 8 and 10 years.
Are Broad-Winged Hawks Endangered?
Answer: No, broad-winged hawks are not considered to be endangered at this time.