Which hawk is most likely to be found in wooded habitats?

The Cooper's hawk is particularly well adapted to wooded habitats, making it the most likely choice among the options provided. This species thrives in environments that feature dense trees and shrubs, which are vital for its hunting strategy. Cooper's hawks have evolved to navigate through the clutter of branches and foliage, allowing them to ambush small birds, their primary prey, with remarkable speed and agility.

In contrast, the Sharp-shinned hawk, while also a bird of prey that inhabits wooded areas, often prefers younger forests or edge habitats where it can find more open space for hunting. The Red-tailed hawk typically favors open areas such as grasslands and fields where it can soar and spot prey from a distance. The American kestrel is usually found in open habitats such as fields, meadows, and farmlands, where it can perch on utility wires or fence posts to hunt insects and small mammals. These habitat preferences highlight the distinctive ecological niches occupied by each species, underscoring why the Cooper's hawk stands out as the most likely to be found in wooded settings.