The Harris Hawk is one of America's most beautiful raptors. Measuring about 20 inches in length, the Harris Hawk has a rich brown body, rufous shoulders and a white rump. It has a white band at the end of its tail. Like most raptors, the female is larger than the male. The Harris Hawk is an unusually social raptor. They are commonly found in small flocks and even use cooperative hunting techniques to ambush and kill prey liked a winged pack of wolves. They can sometimes be observed standing on top of each other looking for food (though the dominant bird is usually the one on the bottom of the stack). Their unusual habits have been the subject of numerous studies, making it one of the most researched raptors in the world.

Harris Hawks are among the most commonly used raptor in the sport of Falconry. They are said to be bold, versatile, adaptable and easy to train.They even form bonds with their handlers.

Diet: Rodents, hares, occasionally birds.

Nesting: Unlike most raptors, this species nests in social units. Social units may include as many as seven birds. In addition, the Harris Hawk is apt to breed in any month of the year (though most likely in the spring). Females will lay a second or third clutch of eggs if previous clutches fail.
Status: The Harris Hawk is thought to be declining in the United States

Range: The Harris Hawk occurs in western Texas, southern Arizona, most of Mexico, the Pacific Coast of Central America, and parts of South America. The Harris Hawk is a permanent resident and does not migrate.

Habitat: Arid lowland scrub, arid montane scrub, tropical deciduous forests, wet grasslands, deserts, and in urban and suburban parks.