Differences between Falcons and Hawks

Falcons and hawks are both raptors; otherwise known as birds of prey. However, they belong to different families and have several differences in terms of physical characteristics, behaviour, and hunting techniques.

Here are some of the key differences between falcons and hawks:

Physical Characteristic 

Falcons

• Typically have long, pointed wings and a slender body which are designed for speed and maneuverability
• Extremely agile and fast in flight
• Long tails aid in rapid changes in direction
• On average, are smaller in size than hawks

Hawks

• Hawks have broad, rounded wings
• Curved and robust beaks designed to tear apart their prey rather than kill with a bite
• Shorter tails built for soaring and sustained flight
• Wings are adapted for efficient gliding
• On average, are larger than falcons

Hunting Techniques

Falcons

• Known for their aerial hunting prowess
• Adept at high-speed pursuits and often hunt by diving from great heights to catch their prey in mid-air
• Capture their prey with their feet, then quickly use their beaks to kill.
• Possess a notch or “tomial tooth” on their beak which can quickly severe the spinal cord of their prey
• Often prefer avian prey but may also eat small mammals, reptiles, or insects

Hawks

• Hawks are skilled at soaring and have keen eyesight, which they use to spot prey from a distance.
• Typically hunt by perching in trees or on elevated vantage points before swooping down to capture their prey on the ground.
• Catch and kill their prey with their talons or soon after with a bite to the neck or body
• Prey includes rodents, rabbits, snakes, frogs, and even large insects.

Behavior

Falcons

• Known for their territorial behaviour and are often solitary hunters
• They are also known for their acrobatic flight displays, particularly during courtship
• Active during the day
• Hunt mostly at dawn

Hawks

• Hawks are more social birds and can be seen in groups, especially during migration
• Some species of hawks are known for their impressive aerial displays during courtship
• Sometimes store prey in trees to be eaten later

Vocalizations

Falcons

Falcons are generally quieter birds and produce high-pitched calls and vocalizations

Hawks

Hawks are often more vocal, with a range of calls including screeches, screams, and whistles.

Classification

Falcons

• Belong to the family Falconidae, which includes species such as the peregrine falcon, kestrels, and merlins
• The family Falconidae includes more than 60 species
• This family is divided into two subsections; typical falcons and caracaras
• Typical falcons such as the peregrine falcon and the American kestrel are known for their speed and agility
• Caracaras are more versatile in their feeding habits and are often found walking on the ground

Hawks

• Belong to the family Accipitridae
• This family includes over 240 species of hawks, eagles, kites, harriers, and Old World Vultures
• This family is separated into two main genus’ including Buteo and Accipiter
• Buteos include species such as red-tailed hawks and broad-winged hawks that are well adapted to soaring
• Accipiters include species such as Cooper’s hawks and sharp-shinned hawks which specialize in the hunting of smaller bird species

While these are general differences, it's important to note that there is a wide diversity of falcon and hawk species, each with its own unique characteristics and behaviours. Both falcons and hawks are used at Hawkeye for a variety of bird control services. The use of each such bird depends on many factors including the type of nuisance bird species, location, and time of year. To find out more about what services we offer and to get a free quote, please contact us at 416 HAWKEYE.