What is a common behavior of hawks when quarry is close and they are on the hunt?

When hawks are hunting and their quarry is nearby, they often become silent. This behavior is part of their hunting strategy. By reducing noise, they remain stealthy and are less likely to alert their prey, allowing them to get closer for a more effective strike. This ability to remain quiet while stalking enhances their chances of a successful hunt, as it minimizes the risk of scaring away potential food.

The other behaviors are inconsistent with hawk hunting strategies. Making loud noises would give away their position to prey, flying high above can limit their visibility and connection with the ground-level prey, and preferring to stay hidden, while sometimes applicable, generally does not involve the same level of focus and intent as being silent. The key aspect of their hunting behavior is often centered around the need for stealth to effectively capture their quarry.