Swainson’s hawk migrates between North America and South America and is known for soaring over the Andes.
Swainson’s hawks breed across the open landscapes of western North America, from the Canadian Prairies to the western United States. Most migrate to Argentina, often traveling through Central America and along the Andes.
During migration, the birds use thermals to gain height and conserve energy. Large gatherings can form where rising air is particularly reliable, creating impressive streams of raptors in the sky.
The species is named after British naturalist William Swainson. It is sometimes mistaken for the red-tailed hawk because both occur in open country, but Swainson’s hawks have a slimmer appearance and distinctive dark or reddish breast-band patterns.