A light morph red-tailed hawk with brown and white coloration against the blue sky. Photo credit Wesley Berg
A red-tailed hawk with the classic red coloration flying past red rock cliffs. Photo credit Wesley Berg
A surprise attack by a red-tailed hawk on another one perched on the top of a tree in the fall. Photo credit Wesley Berg
Red-tailed hawks are the most widespread raptor in North America, and in the summer, they are a common sight in the San Juans. One can often see them circling high above Silverton as they search for prey. Their large wings allow them to soar and glide with ease. Occasionally crows or even smaller birds may be seen harassing a red-tailed hawk, attempting to drive it away in order to protect their y…