Red Shouldered Hawk Audubon Bird of Prey

This vintage reproduction of John James Audubon’s Plate 56 from Birds of America features a striking pair of Red-Shouldered Hawks perched on a tree branch adorned with trailing Spanish moss. Once considered the most common species of hawk or falcon in North America, their numbers have significantly declined due to habitat loss. However, in Florida, these majestic raptors remain the most frequently spotted hawk, thriving in the state’s woodlands and open habitats. A true hawk of the forest, the Red-Shouldered Hawk is often heard before it is seen, with its clear, whistled calls echoing through the trees—especially during the spring. Interestingly, Blue Jays in the eastern United States are known to mimic this hawk’s call with remarkable accuracy. While populations in eastern North America tend to stay within remaining forests, those in Florida and California are often more visible, having adapted to less dense, open habitats. Audubon’s detailed portrayal captures the regal presence of these birds of prey, making this print a timeless tribute to one of nature’s most vocal and striking raptors. Perfect for bird enthusiasts, art collectors, and anyone inspired by the beauty of the wild.