Red-shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus)
The Red-shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus) is a striking raptor known for its distinctive reddish plumage and broad wings, commonly found in the forests of eastern North America. This medium-sized hawk is a year-round resident in areas like Montreal, where it can often be seen perched high in treetops or soaring gracefully over woodlands in search of prey.
Common Names
| 🇨🇦 | Red-shouldered Hawk |
| 🇫🇷 | Buse à épaulettes |
| 🇩🇪 | Rotschulterbussard |
| 🇲🇽 | Busardo hombro rojo |
Taxonomy
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
Characteristics
| Length | 38-61cm |
| Weight | 460-930g |
| Wingspan | 90-127cm |
| Clutch Size | 2-5 eggs |
| Incubation | 32-40 days |
| Fledging | 42-49 days |
| Sexual Maturity | 1-2 years |
Explore More
📖 Wikipedia Page: For more information about this species.
🎧 Apple Podcast: About this species' biology, behavior and ecological importance.
Best Locations and Seasons for Sightings
For the best chance to observe one or even a pair, visit Parc Angrignon, Parc Michel-Chartrand, or Parc Bernard-Landry during winter or early spring. These seasons offer optimal viewing opportunities due to the absence of foliage. This species prefers to perch atop treetops, and without dense vegetation, it is more easily visible.
| Location | Spring | Summer | Autumn | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jardin Botanique de Montréal | x | x | - | - |
| Parc Angrignon | x | - | - | - |
| Parc Bernard-Landry | x | - | - | - |
| Parc Michel-Chartrand | x | - | x | x |
"x" indicates the species was observed, while "-" indicates no observation. Lack of observation doesn't necessarily imply that the species is absent. Data is derived from my park visit journals.
Identification and Similar Species
Observe the reddish coloring of the breast and shoulders. In flight, pay attention to the reddish hue on the lower part of the tail feathers.
Captured Moments
Videos are hosted on YouTube. Click on a thumbnail to watch it.
Calling (juvenile) Recorded 2023-07-23 in Jardin Botanique Montréal
All content on this page — including photos, videos, and field audio recordings — was created by Karl-Heinz Müller, a Montréal-based wildlife filmmaker, sound recordist, and photographer. Founder of MUUUH and Québec Sauvage, he has spent over a decade documenting Canada’s natural habitats through immersive soundscapes and wildlife films. Learn more about Karl-Heinz
Last updated: 2025-10-20