Which of the following hawks is the most abundant on the North American continent?

The most abundant hawk on the North American continent is indeed the Red-tailed hawk. This species thrives in a variety of habitats, including open fields, deserts, and forests, which contributes to its wide distribution across the continent. Red-tailed hawks are known for their distinctive reddish-brown tails and their versatility in hunting, which allows them to adapt to different environments and food sources. This adaptability helps maintain their population levels, making them the most commonly seen hawk in North America.

In contrast, while the Sharp-shinned hawk is relatively common, it typically inhabits more wooded areas and may not be as widely distributed as the Red-tailed. The Peregrine falcon, although impressive and now recovering in numbers after past declines, is not as numerous as the Red-tailed hawk. The American kestrel, while quite popular and recognizable, is a falcon and not classified as a hawk. It also does not match the Red-tailed in abundance across a range of environments.