What distinguishes the Cooper's hawk's habitat preferences compared to the goshawk?

The Cooper's hawk is known for its adaptability to various habitats, often favoring wooded areas or suburban environments where it can find ample food sources such as small birds. This is in contrast to the goshawk, which typically prefers denser forests and more remote, rugged areas.

The choice that highlights the Cooper's hawk's preference for lower altitudes in warmer climates is correct because this species thrives in environments that provide a mix of trees and open spaces that allow for their hunting style. These locations often exist at lower elevations, contributing to their success in warmer weather.

In contrast, other options don't accurately reflect the typical habitat characteristics. For instance, the notion that it nests in colder climates doesn't apply to the Cooper's hawk, as they are more commonly found in warmer regions. Similarly, hunting primarily in open fields does not align with their behavior, as they tend to hunt in more wooded or shrub-dense areas. Lastly, while some birds do prefer rocky cliffs for nesting, this is not a preference seen in Cooper's hawks, which seek out tree cavities or built nests rather than cliffs.