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# Red-tailed Hawk - Is It Dangerous? | Mind of Animals

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# Red-tailed Hawk

Buteo jamaicensis

Found in Floridabirds

2 Mostly harmless danger 2 out of 5

Red-tailed Hawk

Photo by Becky Matsubara from El Sobrante, California (CC BY 2.0) via [Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Red-tailed_Hawk_(45812546121).jpg)

## What you should know

Red-tailed hawks are large, powerful birds that hunt mice, rabbits, and squirrels using their sharp curved talons. They will not come after you on purpose, but if one feels trapped or is guarding a nest it can scratch badly, so never try to pick one up. Enjoy watching them soar in big circles high in the sky from a safe distance.

## Whoa

The piercing scream you hear for eagles in almost every movie and TV show is actually a red-tailed hawk's cry, because bald eagles make a much weaker chirping sound that directors think is too undramatic.

## Staying safe around it

Treat it with respect, keep your distance, and tell a grown-up if you see one up close.

**Always ask a grown-up before you touch any animal or plant.** If something bites or stings you, tell an adult right away.

Source: [Audubon Society](https://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/red-tailed-hawk)

Read more about the red-tailed hawk at [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Red-tailed_hawk).

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