VA Native Species Home > Birds

Cooper's Hawk (Accipiter cooperii)


Range
Breeds in open woods throughout most of the United States and southern Canada, except Florida peninsula and northern Great Plains states. Winters throughout the United States except for the northern Great Plains.

Size

Length 14-19 inches
Wingspan 28-34 inches
Weight 10-14 ounces (m)
17-24 ounces (f)


Habitat
Deciduous or mixed woods.

 

Diet
Mainly small birds; occasionally small mammals such as mice.


Characteristics
Series of four broad bands on tail. Aggressive avian predators, often found near bird feeders. High-strung, and require special care in rehabilitation. Extremely quick and maneuverable birds, out-flying their prey. Female is substantially bigger than the male. Both sexes of Cooper's are bigger than their similar cousin, the Sharp-shinned Hawk.
 
© 2008 Raptor Conservancy of Virginia