Sparrow Hawk (Falco sparverius)
Length about 10 inches; one of the best known and handsmoest, as
well as smallest, of North American hawks. Breeds throughout the
United States, Canada, and northern Mexico; winters in the United
States and south Guatemala.
The sparrow hawk, a true falcon, lives in the more open areas and
builds its nest in hollow trees. It is often found where telephone and
power poles afford it convenient perching and feeding places, and
may be seen hovering high over its intended prey. Its food consists
of insects, small mammals, birds, spiders, and reptiles.
Grasshoppers, crickets, terrestrial beetles, and caterpillars make up
considerably more than half its subsistence, while field mice, house
mice, and shrews cover fully 25 percent of its annual supply.