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Harris hawk

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These hawks are mainly found in Southern and Central America, however, over the last 30 years they’ve become a very popular choice for falconry enthusiasts in the U.K. The Harris hawk is common throughout most of its range and its typical habitat includes open woodland, semi-desert and scrubland.

Harris hawks hunt rabbits, lizards, birds and insects. They can be both solitary and social, and are the only bird of prey to hunt in family groups or packs. They often hunt cooperatively in this way in winter when prey is harder to find.

Conservation status | Least concern

Fact Sheet

Scientific name

Parabuteo unicinctus

Family

Accipitridae

Order

Accipitriformes

Lifespan

Up to 25 years in captivity

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