Raptors of Lake Huron

The raptors are all birds of prey. The term comes from the Latin raptus, to seize. They are not water birds, but are found frequently along the shores and over the wetlands because they prefer wide-open vistas to cruise and dive for their meals of other birds, rodents, rabbits, snakes and carrion.

The group includes the eagles, hawks, peregrines, owls, kites and vultures. Many of these are difficult to separate from a distance, and doubly so because the immatures are of different plumage. A very good field aid is how they fly and hold their wings. Another is their silhouette from below.

The mighty Bald Eagle, symbol of the United States of America, has been rescued from the endangered list by several decades of diligent conservation efforts all across America. In 1979, there were only 30 in all of Michigan. By 1999 there were 708, a most dramatic recovery that was coupled with banning toxics that found their way into eagle eggs. The "bald" part of their name does not mean lack of feathers, but rather means white or shiny, from the middle English ballede. Today the eagle is quite common along our shores and can be found on many wilderness rivers and lakes inland. It soars with its wing flat out- which distinguishes it from the vulture that has its wings uplifted. An immature eagle is shown in the banner above. It will acquire its white head and tail feathers after 4 to 6 years.

Listen to the call of the Bald Eagle (JWH).

The Osprey although still quite rare, has been making a comeback too in northern Michigan. Various Audubon clubs, the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources have been erecting nesting platforms, which has resulted in population growth. This bird is also known as the fish hawk because of its diet. The stark black and white pattern, black on the head and smaller size serve to distinguish it from the eagle. It is very human friendly and will often nest on docks or duck blinds, if undisturbed. Here we see it tearing apart a large carp.

Listen to the Osprey (TP).

This Red-tailed Hawk nearly has its adult plumage. It is a very common robust hawk, usually associated with farm fields and semi-wooded areas. The large body, rufus-red tail (upper side) and dark belly band can be used to tell it from several others. The beak is relatively small but the feet can grab about any small mammal, including puppies and kittens playing away from the barn. Breeds in mature, open woodlands in early spring. Hawks of this type are known as Buteos, all have broad short wings and large rounded tails. Hear the call of the Red-tailed Hawk (DVG).

The Red-shouldered Hawk is a rare migrant seen along the coastal zone in spring and fall. Used to be more common in the Saginaw Bay Watershed than at present. Easily recognizable by the broad tail and wings with heavy dark bands across both sides of the tail. Adults have rufous shoulders, hence the name Red-shouldered Hawk, but this feature is difficult to see. Immature birds are streaked below, like other young hawks. The song is very similar to Red-tail's (JWH). It has two syllables. This hawk is usually associated with moist woodlands and coastal swamps.

The Peregrine Falcon is very rare in our area. Previously known as the Duck Hawk, this skillful and swift flyer can catch any duck (or pigeon) in flight. The rounded tail and dark cheek patch are good marks for adult or young. It breeds mainly in high places, like cliffs or mountains, thus has been introduced in many large cities where it seems to be taking hold.

The tiny Screech Owl is shown here in its grey phase (sitting on a staghorn sumac head) and more common red phase. It is the only small owl with ear tuffs. Very common around many coastal habitats while searching for mice or small marsh birds. Its song is not a screech but a quavering whistle that descends in pitch.

Song of the Screech Owl (TP).

The Cooper's Hawk is mainly a bird of woodland edges, thus it can be seen patrolling the backshore near the tree and dune line. Like all the Accipiters, it has short wings and a rounded tail (not shown here). Its diet is mainly other birds although it will take anything it can catch of the right size. During spring migration, this hawk and dozens of other species can bee seen sailing thousands of feet up along the coast. Knowing the wing and tail shape is crucial to making an identification. Hear the voice of the Cooper's Hawk (DVG).

If any hawk is spotted in the field, take note of the other birds: chances are they will have seen it too and be frozen in place with an eye skyward.

Here we see young Sharp-shinned Hawks in the Nest (left). When adult (right) they will be smaller than the Cooper's hawk and have square or notched tails rather than rounded. Immatures of all the hawks are difficult to separate. This is another woodland species that patrols the open shore zone looking for tender birds to grab.

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