Common and uncommon raptors circling the skies over Denver during the summer months include the red-tailed hawk, the Swainson’s hawk, the Mississippi kite, the bald eagle, and the turkey vulture.
The red-tailed hawk is the most common hawk year-round. Length: 17.7–25.6 inches. Weight: 24.3–51.5 ounces. Wingspan: 44.9–52.4 inches.
Only common from April–Sept., the Swainson’s hawk returns to Argentina during the winter months. Length: 18.9–22.1 inches. Weight: 24.4–48.2 ounces. Wingspan: 46–54 inches.
The Mississippi kite is smaller and less common. Nesting in Denver, it will return to South America for winter. Length: 13.4–14.6 inches. Weight: 7.6–9.5 ounces.
Wingspan: 36 inches.
Left: Bald eagle. Length: 27.9–37.8 inches. Weight: 105.8–222.2 ounces. Wingspan: 80.3 inches. Right: Turkey vulture. Length: 25.2–31.9 inches. Weight: 70.5 ounces. Wingspan: 66.9–70.1 inches.
Bird Walks: September 6 & October 4, 7:30am & 8am. Walks are free but you must RSVP at www.blufflake.org/birdwatching. All are welcome. Bring your own binoculars, or borrow a pair from your guide. 11255 MLK Jr. Blvd. Search www.FrontPorchNE.com for “Bird Sightings” to see all the past bird stories and photos from George Ho.
0 Comments