Red-Tailed Hawk or Not? A Close Encounter at Charleston Lake

While photographing a Double-crested Cormorant at Charleston Lake in Charleston, Arkansas, I had an unexpected encounter with another bird. As I sat in my truck, camera steady on a bean bag, a bird of prey suddenly appeared. I’m fairly certain it was a Red-tailed Hawk flying low over my vehicle.

Reacting quickly, I lifted my camera and lens off the bean bag and aimed toward the hawk. Shooting through the open window presented a challenge, as I had to quickly adjust my angle while keeping the bird in frame. Despite the awkward position, I managed to capture the hawk as it flew directly overhead. However, the upper door frame of my truck limited my range of motion, and I couldn’t follow the hawk further as it soared past. Despite this limitation, I believe I captured a couple of good shots that highlight the hawk’s graceful flight and striking details, even in the fleeting moments it was in frame.

Camera Settings for the First Photo

• Date: 12/5/24
• Time: 8:45 AM
• Camera Model: Canon EOS R5 Mark 2
• Lens: Canon RF 200-800mm at 800mm
• ISO: 1600
• Aperture: f/9
• Shutter Speed: 1/3200
• Exposure Compensation: 0

What Do You Think?

Do you agree that this is a Red-tailed Hawk? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Short notes:

• The shape and size appear consistent with a Red-tailed Hawk: broad wings, stocky body, short tail.
• The dark patagial bars near the leading edges of the wings are a key Red-tailed Hawk field mark.
• The streaked belly band and overall coloration fit with variable plumage patterns common in Red-tailed Hawks.
• Immature Red-tailed Hawks have brownish tails and may not show the trademark red tail.
• The hawk’s head and body proportions also suggest a Red-tailed Hawk rather than other common hawk species.