Where are Cooper’s Hawk found in the wild?

Cooper’s Hawks swoop through forests and urban areas in Central America, where they feel right at home among the trees. They prefer habitats that provide cover and places to perch, like woodlands, shrublands, and even suburban gardens, allowing them to keep a watchful eye for small birds and mammals.

Cooper’s Hawk

Soar high with the amazing masters of disguise!

The Basics

Scientific Name

Accipiter cooperii

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Location

Central America

Average size

14 to 20 inches tall

diet

Small birds and mammals

lifespan

Up to 12 years

Let’s Explore

Overview

The Cooper’s Hawk is a captivating bird that soars through the skies of Central America. With a size ranging from 35 to 51 centimeters (14 to 20 inches) tall, this raptor shows off its impressive wings and sharp hunting skills.
Cooper’s Hawks belong to the Accipitridae family, which includes other birds of prey like eagles and kites. They have strong, elongated bodies that help them zip through trees at impressive speeds, making them perfect for a game of hide-and-seek in the forest.
This bird loves to feast on small birds and mammals, showing off its incredible agility while hunting. With its keen eyesight, the Cooper’s Hawk swoops down quickly, catching its dinner in a flash!
The average lifespan of a Cooper’s Hawk can reach up to 12 years, which is quite an achievement in the bird world. Each year, these crafty guys refine their hunting techniques and enjoy the thrill of the chase in their forest homes.
Cooper’s Hawks are skilled at camouflage, blending into their surroundings with a mix of brown and gray feathers. This helps them remain hidden while waiting to ambush unsuspecting prey, making them true masters of disguise in the wild!

Where can you find a Cooper’s Hawk in the wild?

What does a Cooper’s Hawk eat?

How big can a Cooper’s Hawk grow?

How long does a Cooper’s Hawk typically live?

What is the conservation status of the Cooper’s Hawk?

What are the main threats to the Cooper’s Hawk?

wowzerful facts

Cooper's Hawks can spot a tiny bird from over 50 meters (164 feet) away, thanks to their incredible eyesight, which is about eight times better than human vision!

These skilled hunters sometimes play a game of tag with their prey. They chase after small birds through trees, darting like a roller coaster ride to surprise and catch them!

When it comes time for nesting, Cooper's Hawks work hard to build their homes. The female gathers sticks and vegetation, creating an impressive nest that can be around 1 meter (3.3 feet) wide!

Cooper's Hawks show special family ties. The adult birds often take care of their young together, teaching them to hunt and fly until they are strong enough to go solo!

These hawks can be quite vocal. They often argue with other birds in their territory, making sharp calls that sound like a mix between a 'kak' and a 'kree!' It's their way of saying "this is my space!"

During mating season, male Cooper's Hawks perform acrobatic displays, flying high and diving through the air. This dance helps attract a mate and shows off their flying skills!

If a Cooper's Hawk feels threatened, it can puff up its feathers to look bigger and more intimidating. It's like turning into a fluffy superhero ready to defend itself!

Juvenile Cooper's Hawks have a completely different look than their parents. They sport a mix of brown and white feathers, looking like they're dressed in a cool camouflage outfit!

Sometimes, Cooper's Hawks can be found hunting together, especially when feeding their young. They work as a team, making sure everyone gets a share of the meal!

These birds do not shy away from urban life. They can frequently be spotted in cities, hunting small birds in parks and gardens, proving that nature can thrive, even in crowded places!