Identifying Juvenile Sharp-Shinned Hawks and Cooper’s Hawks: A Comparative Guide
What is the difference between a juvenile sharp-shinned hawk and a juvenile Cooper’s hawk? The key distinction lies in their size and shape: juvenile Cooper’s Hawks are larger and have a more blocky head and longer tail, while juvenile Sharp-shinned Hawks are smaller with a more rounded head and a narrower, squared-off tail. Differentiating these raptors can be challenging, but understanding their specific features will make identification easier.
Introduction: A Tale of Two Raptors
The woodlands and backyards of North America host a fascinating variety of birdlife, including two notoriously tricky-to-distinguish raptors: the Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus) and the Cooper’s Hawk (Accipiter cooperii). These birds, belonging to the Accipiter family, are known for their agility and prowess at hunting birds in dense cover. However, their similar appearances, especially in their juvenile plumage, often confound birdwatchers. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on what is the difference between a juvenile sharp-shinned hawk and a juvenile Cooper’s hawk?
Size Matters: A Comparative Overview
One of the primary factors in telling these hawks apart is their overall size.
- Sharp-shinned Hawk: Typically measures 9-14 inches in length, with a wingspan of 17-22 inches. They are generally smaller than a crow.
- Cooper’s Hawk: Is noticeably larger, ranging from 14-20 inches in length and having a wingspan of 24-35 inches. They are roughly the size of a crow or slightly larger.
Although size can be useful, remember that there is overlap. A large female Sharp-shinned Hawk may approach the size of a small male Cooper’s Hawk. Context, alongside other characteristics, is crucial.
Structural Differences: Head, Tail, and Body Shape
Beyond size, structural differences provide valuable clues.
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Head Shape:
- Sharp-shinned Hawk: Exhibits a more rounded, almost owl-like head. The nape (back of the neck) appears less prominent.
- Cooper’s Hawk: Possesses a more angular, blocky head. The nape often appears more prominent, giving it a “capped” look.
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Tail Shape:
- Sharp-shinned Hawk: Typically displays a narrower, squared-off tail tip.
- Cooper’s Hawk: Shows a more rounded tail tip. The outer tail feathers of the Cooper’s Hawk can also be graduated in length, further accentuating the rounded shape.
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Body Proportions:
- Sharp-shinned Hawk: Appears more slender and delicate overall.
- Cooper’s Hawk: Has a more robust and powerful build.
Plumage Variations: Juvenile Identification
Identifying juveniles presents a unique challenge because both species share a similar plumage pattern: brown streaking on a white or buffy breast and belly. However, subtle differences exist.
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Streaking Pattern:
- Sharp-shinned Hawk: The streaking is generally finer and more evenly distributed.
- Cooper’s Hawk: The streaking tends to be bolder and heavier, often forming distinct blotches.
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Eye Color:
- Sharp-shinned Hawk: Eyes of juveniles are typically a paler yellow.
- Cooper’s Hawk: Eyes of juveniles are usually a richer, darker yellow or orange. This difference can be subtle and is more helpful when comparing birds side-by-side.
Behavioral Clues: Flight and Hunting Styles
Observing flight patterns and hunting behavior can provide additional insights.
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Flight Style:
- Sharp-shinned Hawk: Often exhibits a quicker, more erratic flight. Their wingbeats are faster and shallower.
- Cooper’s Hawk: Flies with a more deliberate and powerful wingbeat.
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Hunting Strategy:
- Sharp-shinned Hawk: Favors hunting smaller birds in dense thickets and backyards.
- Cooper’s Hawk: Hunts larger birds and mammals in more open woodlands.
Habitat and Range
While their ranges overlap significantly, understanding habitat preferences can be useful.
- Sharp-shinned Hawk: More commonly found in dense coniferous forests and woodlands. They are also more likely to be seen in suburban backyards.
- Cooper’s Hawk: Favors more open woodlands and edge habitats. They are also increasingly common in urban and suburban environments.
Utilizing Multiple Clues
Ultimately, what is the difference between a juvenile sharp-shinned hawk and a juvenile Cooper’s hawk? requires careful consideration of multiple characteristics. Relying on a single feature can lead to misidentification. The best approach involves combining size, shape, plumage details, behavior, and habitat information.
| Feature | Juvenile Sharp-shinned Hawk | Juvenile Cooper’s Hawk |
|---|---|---|
| —————- | ——————————————— | ———————————————– |
| Size | Smaller (9-14 inches) | Larger (14-20 inches) |
| Head Shape | Rounded | Blocky |
| Tail Shape | Squared-off | Rounded |
| Streaking | Finer, more evenly distributed | Bolder, heavier, blotchy |
| Eye Color | Pale yellow | Richer, darker yellow/orange |
| Flight Style | Quicker, erratic | More deliberate, powerful |
| Preferred Habitat | Dense coniferous forests, suburban backyards | Open woodlands, edge habitats, urban environments |
Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Identification
Differentiating between juvenile Sharp-shinned Hawks and Cooper’s Hawks is a challenging but rewarding skill. By carefully observing size, shape, plumage, behavior, and habitat, birdwatchers can confidently identify these elusive raptors. With practice and patience, you’ll become adept at recognizing the subtle clues that distinguish these two fascinating birds. The key is to remember that identification relies on a holistic assessment, not just a single distinguishing feature.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most reliable way to tell these two hawks apart?
While no single characteristic is foolproof, the best approach is to combine observations of size, head shape, and tail shape. These features, taken together, provide the most reliable clues for distinguishing between juvenile Sharp-shinned Hawks and Cooper’s Hawks.
Can I use feather patterns alone to identify them?
While feather patterns can provide clues, they are not always reliable. The streaking patterns can vary, and there is some overlap between the two species. Therefore, feather patterns should be considered in conjunction with other characteristics.
How does the age of the juvenile affect identification?
Very young juveniles may be even more challenging to identify because their plumage and structural features are still developing. As they mature, the differences in size, head shape, and tail shape become more pronounced, making identification easier.
Do location and habitat play a role in identification?
Yes, habitat can provide helpful context. While both species can be found in similar areas, Sharp-shinned Hawks are more frequently found in dense forests and backyards, while Cooper’s Hawks prefer more open woodlands and urban areas.
Are there any apps or field guides that can help with identification?
Yes, many excellent apps and field guides offer detailed information and illustrations to aid in bird identification. Look for resources that specifically address the differences between Sharp-shinned Hawks and Cooper’s Hawks, and consider using multiple resources to compare information.
What should I do if I am still unsure about the identification?
If you are uncertain, it’s best to consult with experienced birders or ornithologists. You can also submit photos or descriptions to online bird identification forums for assistance.
Do these hawks ever hybridize?
Hybridization between Sharp-shinned Hawks and Cooper’s Hawks is extremely rare, although there have been anecdotal reports. Because it is so uncommon, assume you are seeing a pure individual of either species and focus on identification through key characteristics.
Is there a difference in their calls that can help with identification?
Yes, their calls differ, but this is often difficult to hear in the field and requires familiarity with both species. Sharp-shinned Hawk calls tend to be higher-pitched and more repetitive, while Cooper’s Hawk calls are generally lower and more varied.
How does lighting affect my ability to identify them?
Poor lighting conditions can make it difficult to assess size, shape, and plumage details accurately. Whenever possible, observe birds in good light to maximize your chances of making a correct identification.
What time of year is it easiest to identify these hawks?
Identifying juveniles is typically easier in the late summer and fall when they are more numerous and have developed their characteristic plumage and structural features. During this time, you have a higher chance of observing them and comparing their traits.
Is it possible to confuse these hawks with other raptor species?
Yes, especially with other Accipiter hawks like the Northern Goshawk. Pay close attention to the specific features outlined in this article to avoid misidentification.
Does their diet play a role in the difference between juvenile sharp-shinned hawk and a juvenile Cooper’s hawk?
Their diet does influence their morphology over time. The Cooper’s Hawk, which hunts larger birds and mammals, tends to be larger and more robust than the Sharp-shinned Hawk, which primarily preys on smaller birds. These dietary differences contribute to the size and structural variations that help us identify them.