*-><; LIFE-HISTORIES OF BIRDS 



Buteo borealis, Viclli. 



The Red-tailed Hawk lias an extensive distribution. It 

 ranges from Central America and Mexico to high northern 

 latitudes, and from the Atlantic to the Pacific coast. In the 

 fur regions, Richardson found it breeding in small numbers, 

 between the 53*! and and 57th parallels of latitude. Through- 

 out Guatemala, it is abundantly distributed during the 

 breeding-season. It is common in Jamaica, where it breeds 

 according to Gosse ; and is even included bv Dr. Gundlach 

 and Mr. Lembeye in the avi-fauna of Cuba, where it is 

 supposed to breed by the former. A single specimen was 

 obtained from Panama. In the New England States, it is by 

 no means an uncommon permanent resident, while in the 

 Southern States, it is mainly abundant in winter. Speci- 

 mens have been obtained from Fort Fillmore in New Mexico, 

 and from the Yellowstone and Pecos Rivers, bv the govern- 

 ment expeditions. To enter into a complete history of its 

 distribution, would be irrelevant to our present purpose. 



In Eastern Pennsylvania, it is by far the most abundant of 

 all our Hawks, remaining with us throughout the entire 

 year. It is a strong and powerful species, and manifests 

 considerable courage. In the neighborhood in which it 

 lesides. it exercises unbounded supremacy, and lords it over 

 all other species that chance to take up their abode in the 

 same vicinity. Being very partial to high open thickets, 

 and low meadows remote from man, it will not hesitate 

 to enter within his domains when danger is not imminent. 

 It is, however, a very cautious bird, and seldom ventures 

 except where the dwelling is isolated and situated in close 

 proximity to its own haunts. \Vhen tempted by the pros- 

 pect of a plump chicken, it first reconnoitres the country 

 while careering high overhead, then starts off in a contrary 

 direction, but shortly to retrace its steps in a somewhat cir- 

 cuitous and stealthy manner. It does not My at once to the 

 place, but makes numerous short Mights from tree to tree. 



