Falcons and hawks differ in behavior, flying styles, nesting spots, and prey-killing methods. This article clarifies their distinctions.
Falcons: round heads, pointed wings, notched beaks for killing. Hawks: pointed heads, curved beaks, wide rounded wings.
Falcons and hawks differ in size. Hawks are generally larger, ranging 8-30 inches, while falcons are smaller, measuring 8-26 inches.
Hawks glide, falcons soar. Hawks: broad wings, slow. Falcons: narrow, fast. Falcons fly 390 km/h, Hawks 190 km/h.
Hawks live longer (avg. 20 yrs) than falcons (avg. 13 yrs); 60% falcons die in 1st year. Both face similar threats. In captivity, hawks live up to 30 yrs.
Hawks raise young until 6 weeks. Start hunting at 8 weeks. Hunt quietly at dusk. Falcons hunt solo, use beaks for prey.
Falcons prey on small mammals and birds, occasionally targeting larger animals. Hawks hunt similar prey, including reptiles and insects.
Falcons thrive in varied habitats globally, from wetlands to urban areas. Hawks excel in open spaces like fields and deserts for prey.