General Discussion : Cooper's/Sharp shinned hawk in area

Recently there has been a Cooper's hawk hunting around our yard. We have seen him twice now. I have read of Cooper's hawks taking American Kestrels. Should I be worried of putting up a nest box this season? Thanks for your comments.

Comments:

Delorahilleary's picture

Hello,
Typically Cooper's hawks and American Kestrels occupy different habitats - American Kestrels prefer wide open space, and Cooper's Hawks prefer forest and thickets. Thus, it's normally not an issue.

If you have big open space where the adult kestrels could see just fine all around them while perched, then I would certainly put up a nest box. However, if the area is mostly trees and forest, then it is unlikely the kestrels would use the nest box and you would likely get other species instead.

I hope that helps!
-Delora

drelys's picture

Thanks for your response. Our land sits next to a forested area where I think that the hawk may have come from. We believe that he was hunting at our bird feeder. We haven't seen him recently. Once again thank you for your response.

Delorahilleary's picture

Anytime! Sounds like the area is ideal for kestrels then - if the kestrels can see all around, then no Cooper's hawk will be able to sneak up on them. Let us know if you have any other questions!
-D

Posted in General Discussion by drelys 8 years 1 month ago.

 

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