When birdwatching, one common question arises: “Is that a hawk or an eagle?” While both are majestic birds of prey, they have distinct differences in size, hunting techniques, flight patterns, and even calls. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between hawks and eagles so you can confidently identify them in the wild.
Hawks and Eagles: Same Family, Different Groups
Both hawks and eagles belong to the Accipitridae family, which includes some of the most powerful birds of prey. However, they fall into different sub-groups, making them distinct from each other.
Hawk Characteristics
Hawks are generally smaller, more agile, and specialized hunters. They are divided into two main groups:
- Accipitrinae (True Hawks) – Fast, stealthy, long-tailed hunters that primarily chase birds. Example: Sharp-shinned hawk (Accipiter striatus).
- Buteoninae (Broad-winged Hawks) – Heavier, with stout wings, and more likely to hunt small mammals. Example: Red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis).
Eagle Characteristics
Eagles are typically larger, stronger, and capable of hunting bigger prey. They are categorized into four main groups:
- Fish Eagles (Genus Haliaeetus) – Specialize in catching fish. Example: Bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus).
- Snake Eagles (Genus Circaetus) – Primarily hunt reptiles, especially snakes.
- Giant Forest Eagles (Genera Harpia & Morphnus) – Enormous eagles that prey on large mammals like monkeys and sloths. Example: Harpy eagle (Harpia harpyja).
- Booted Eagles (Genera Hieraaetus & Aquila) – Named for the feathered “boots” covering their legs. Example: Golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos).
Key Differences Between Hawks and Eagles
1. Size and Strength
Eagles are usually much larger than hawks, with greater wingspans and stronger talons. However, there are exceptions:
- The Ferruginous hawk (Buteo regalis), the largest North American hawk, is bigger than some small eagle species.
- The South Nicobar serpent eagle (Spilornis klossi) is smaller than many hawks.
2. Hunting Style and Diet
- Hawks usually hunt smaller prey, including birds, rodents, and insects.
- Eagles target larger prey, such as fish, mammals, and even other birds. Some eagles, like the Golden eagle, have been seen hunting baby mountain goats.
3. Flight and Wing Shape
- Hawks have rounded wings and tend to flap more frequently while flying.
- Eagles have broader, squarer wings and soar with their wings held straight out, resembling a cargo plane in flight.
4. Head and Beak Size
- Eagles have larger heads and stronger, more hooked beaks compared to hawks.
- Hawks have smaller heads with shorter, less curved beaks.
5. Vocalizations
- Hawks often produce loud, raspy screeches. The Red-tailed hawk’s call is famously used in movies as a stand-in for other birds of prey.
- Eagles typically make high-pitched chirping or whistling sounds, which is surprising given their large size.
How to Identify a Hawk vs. an Eagle in the Wild
| Feature | Hawks | Eagles |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Smaller, lighter | Larger, heavier |
| Wings | Rounded, shorter | Broad, squared |
| Head & Beak | Smaller, less hooked | Larger, strongly hooked |
| Flight Pattern | Flaps more, agile | Soars with straight wings |
| Diet | Small mammals, birds, insects | Fish, mammals, large prey |
| Vocalization | Screeching, hoarse calls | High-pitched chirps |
While hawks and eagles may look similar at first glance, their size, hunting habits, flight patterns, and calls can help you tell them apart. Next time you see a raptor soaring above, take a closer look—you might just be able to identify whether it’s a hawk or an eagle!
FAQ’s
How can you tell the difference between a hawk and an eagle?
Eagles are generally larger, with broader wings and bigger heads, while hawks are smaller, more agile, and have rounded wings. Hawks also flap more frequently, whereas eagles soar with their wings held straight.
Which is stronger, a hawk or an eagle?
Eagles are much stronger than hawks due to their larger size and stronger talons. They can hunt larger prey, including mammals, fish, and even other birds.
Do eagles and hawks live in the same habitats?
Yes, both eagles and hawks can be found in forests, mountains, and open fields. However, some species, like fish eagles, prefer areas near water.
Why do eagles have larger beaks than hawks?
Eagles have larger, more hooked beaks because they hunt larger prey, requiring a stronger bite to tear through meat.
Which bird of prey has the largest wingspan?
Among eagles, the Steller’s sea eagle has one of the largest wingspans, reaching up to 8 feet. Among hawks, the Ferruginous hawk has the largest wingspan.
