Short-Tailed Hawk
Buteo brachyurus
The Short-Tailed Hawk is a rare Florida raptor that circles high above woodlands and wetlands while hunting birds on the wing.
Florida supports the only regular breeding population of Short-Tailed Hawks in the United States. They use wooded nesting areas and hunt over forests, marshes, mangroves, and suburban tree cover.
Two color forms occur. Light birds show white underparts with dark flight feathers, while dark birds appear mostly black below.
Habitat:
Forests and Woodlands, Mangroves and Salt Marshes, Urban and Residential Areas
Area / Range:
Central Florida, South Florida
Diet:
They prey mainly on small birds, with occasional lizards, rodents, frogs, and insects.
Behavior:
Short-Tailed Hawks soar high, then make steep surprise dives into the canopy. Pairs build stick nests high in trees near wet or wooded landscapes.
Day
Active Times:
Best time to see:
Cooler months in South Florida and spring through summer farther north in the peninsula.
Florida Native Status:
Native
Conservation Status:
Uncommon and localized in Florida. Forest loss, wetland alteration, and disturbance near nests are continuing concerns.
Safety Level:
Low Risk
Safety Information:
Watch from a distance and never approach an active nest. Keep drones away from nesting and hunting birds.
Benefits to Property:
This raptor helps balance populations of small birds, rodents, and other prey while adding strong wildlife-viewing value.
Property Concerns:
It causes no meaningful property damage. Removing mature nesting trees or disturbing active nests creates the main conflict.
Fun Fact:
Despite the name, the tail is only slightly shorter than that of similar hawks. The species often hunts from heights where it is easy to overlook.
Wildlife Laws:
Short-Tailed Hawks, their nests, eggs, and feathers are protected by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Florida wildlife rules. Active nests must not be disturbed.
Identification:
Look for broad wings, a compact body, a short banded tail, and a strong contrast between pale underwings and dark flight feathers in the light form. Dark-form birds are nearly black below with paler flight feathers.