What is a common prey item for red-tailed hawks?

Red-tailed hawks are known for their keen eyesight and adaptability, allowing them to effectively hunt a variety of prey. Small mammals are the most prevalent component of their diet, making them a primary target during hunting. This includes animals such as rabbits, squirrels, and voles, which are abundant and provide significant nutritional value.

The hunting methods of red-tailed hawks, which can include soaring high in the sky to spot prey or perching quietly to ambush, further enhance their success in capturing small mammals. Their strong talons and beaks are also well-suited for grasping and consuming these animals, making them efficient predators.

In contrast, while fish, insects, and fruits can be part of the diet for some birds of prey, red-tailed hawks primarily rely on small mammals due to their availability and the hawks' hunting style. Thus, the focus on small mammals aligns with the species' ecological role and hunting behavior, establishing them as a common prey item for red-tailed hawks.