Bird of prey: red-tailed hawk Red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) preparing to land. This North American bird of prey is found from Alaska to Panama. (more) What Are the Differences Between Hawks and Falcons? Ask the Chatbot a Question More Actions Share Share Share to social media Facebook X URL https://www.britannica.com/topic/What-Are-the-Differences-Between-Hawks-and-Falcons Feedback Corrections? Updates? Omissions? Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). Feedback Type Select a type (Required) Factual Correction Spelling/Grammar Correction Link Correction Additional Information Other Your Feedback Submit Feedback Thank you for your feedback Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.

　　External Websites Ask the Chatbot a Question Written and fact-checked by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. They write new content and verify and edit content received from contributors. The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Last Updated: Mar 19, 2025 • Article History Table of Contents Table of Contents Ask the Chatbot Hawks and falcons, while both being birds of prey, belong to different taxonomic families, and, according to a growing number of classifications, even different orders. Hawks are primarily part of the family Accipitridae, which includes a variety of birds such as kites, buzzards, and harriers. Falcons, on the other hand, belong to the family Falconidae. This distinction is crucial as it highlights the different evolutionary paths these birds have taken, despite their similar predatory lifestyles. Hawks are often referred to as accipiters, while falcons are known for their swift, powerful flight and are often called true falcons. A number of ...(100 of 372 words)

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