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How to Identify the Cooper's Hawk vs. the Sharp-shinned Hawk?

Alexandre Lajeunesse

For birders, identifying the Cooper’s Hawk (Accipiter cooperii) and the Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus) is one of the more challenging yet rewarding skills to master. These two raptors are strikingly similar, but a closer look reveals subtle differences that can make all the difference. This guide will help you learn to distinguish them, whether perched or in flight, so you can elevate your birding game.

Why Does Accurate Identification Matter?

Precise identification in the field isn’t just a skill—it’s a time-saver. When you’re able to distinguish these species quickly:

  • You gain efficiency: Knowing what you’re looking at without hesitation gives you more time to observe or record your sightings.
  • You improve your skills: Spotting these subtle distinctions sharpens your overall birding abilities, making you a more confident observer.

Key Differences Between the Cooper's Hawk and the Sharp-shinned Hawk

1. Size and Overall Proportions

  • Cooper's Hawk (Accipiter cooperii): Larger and sturdier, with a wingspan of 75–94 cm. Its body is proportionally broader, and the head appears more prominent.
  • Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus): Smaller and more delicate, with a wingspan of 58–78 cm. Its build is slender, and its head is relatively smaller.

2. Tail Shape

  • Cooper's: The tail has a distinct rounded tip with noticeable white edges.
  • Sharp-shinned: The tail appears straighter or square-tipped, with less prominent white edging.

3. Hood vs. Cap

  • Cooper's: Adults have a sharply defined dark cap contrasting with a lighter nape, giving a sleek, "helmeted" look.
  • Sharp-shinned: Displays a darker "hood" that blends more evenly with the nape, creating a softer, less pronounced contrast.

4. Facial Expression

  • Cooper's: Known for its fierce, intense gaze—its downward-angled eyes create a “mean” expression.
  • Sharp-shinned: Often looks more wide-eyed and "surprised," with rounder, less intimidating eyes.

In-Flight Differences

Head and Wing Silhouette

  • Cooper's: The head sticks well out in front of the wings during flight, giving the silhouette a cross-like appearance.
  • Sharp-shinned: The head is tucked closer to the shoulders, making the bird look more compact.

Flight Style

  • Cooper's: Smooth, deliberate wingbeats, alternating with long, steady glides.
  • Sharp-shinned: Quick, choppy wingbeats, with less predictable gliding patterns.

Differences in Plumage: Adults vs. Juveniles

Adults

  • Cooper's: Fine, rufous barring across the chest, creating a uniform, polished look.
  • Sharp-shinned: Heavier, more irregular chest barring with a stronger contrast.

Juveniles

  • Cooper's: Vertical streaks on the chest are thin and light brown on a white background.
  • Sharp-shinned: Thicker, darker streaks on the chest that appear less organized.

Eye Color

  • Both species have yellow eyes as juveniles that transition to red as they mature, but the Sharp-shinned’s red eyes tend to be slightly darker in intensity. 

Behavioral Clues

Habitat Preferences

  • Cooper's: Frequently found in a variety of habitats, from forests to suburban backyards.
  • Sharp-shinned: Prefers dense woodlands and is less likely to be seen near urban areas.

Hunting Behavior

  • Cooper's: Displays calculated, deliberate hunting techniques.
  • Sharp-shinned: More erratic, opportunistic, and quicker to strike.

Practical Tips for Field Identification

  1. Focus on proportions: The size of the bird and the prominence of its head are key indicators.
  2. Analyze the tail: A rounded tail suggests Cooper's, while a squared tail points to Sharp-shinned.
  3. Observe flight patterns: A Cooper's Hawk’s flight is smoother and more composed compared to the rapid wingbeats of the Sharp-shinned Hawk.
  4. Look at the head features: Pay attention to the hood vs. cap and the expression of the bird.

Bonus Field Clue: A Bird’s Gaze

When you're observing raptors at close range, their facial expressions can be surprisingly revealing:

  • Cooper's Hawk: A "mean" and focused glare, almost predatory.
  • Sharp-shinned Hawk: A wide-eyed, "startled" expression.

    In Summary

    Distinguishing between the Cooper’s Hawk and the Sharp-shinned Hawk is a skill that requires practice and attention to detail. From their size and tail shape to their expressions and flight patterns, every small clue can help you make the right identification. With this guide in hand, you’re ready to take your birding to the next level.

    Happy birding, and as always: Let’s go birding!

     

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