Hawks are birds of prey in the family Accipitridae, found on every continent except Antarctica. The subfamily Accipitrinae includes goshawks, sparrowhawks, and sharp-shinned hawks. These woodland birds have short, broad wings, long tails, and excellent vision, hunting by suddenly dashing from concealed perches.
In North America, the Buteo group is also called hawks, while in other regions, they are referred to as buzzards. Buteos have broader wings and sturdier bodies, allowing for longer flights in open areas. They typically pounce on prey rather than engage in fast pursuits.
The terms “accipitrine hawk” and “buteonine hawk” help distinguish between these types where both are called hawks. “True hawk” may refer to accipitrine hawks in areas where “buzzard” is used for buteonine hawks.
