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BIRDS OF NORTH CAROLINA 



The Cooper's Hawk is known to be a permanent resident in all portions of the 

 State, and in many districts is abundant. It may be noted that the local names 

 given this species apply as well to the Sharp-shinned Hawk. 



This is the hawk which preys conspicuously upon chickens, although its misdeeds 

 are very often attributed to the larger, clumsier hawks of the genus Buteo, which 

 are also commonly and erroneously called " Chicken Hawks." Besides poultry, 

 which of course constitutes only a small portion of its food, this bird preys to a 

 considerable extent upon various small birds, and seems to have but small liking 

 for the rats, mice, reptiles, and large insects so much esteemed as articles of diet 

 by many of our other hawks. 



FIG. 125. COOPER'S HAWK. 



The nest is often built in the main crotch of a medium-sized tree, or on a limb 

 close to the trunk. It is constructed of twigs or small sticks; sometimes the old 

 nest of a crow or of some other hawk is used. The eggs are two to four in the 

 southern part of its range, and are frequently unmarked, though not uncommonly 

 lightly blotched or marked with some shade of brown or drab. Size 1.95 x 1.50. 

 They are generally laid in May or June. 



Genus Buteo (Lacep.) 



This genus includes a number of comparatively large and sluggish hawks, with 

 rather long and broad wings, and a medium length of tail. In Europe they are 

 known as "Buzzards." 



