Falcons and hawks are two different birds of prey. Despite their distinct differences, these two species of killer birds are often used synonymously by many people. Falcons and hawks have contrasting physical features, hunting techniques, and habitats.
The falcon is known for its slim body, long, pointed wings and incredible speed when chasing in the air. On the other hand, hawks have wider wings and rely more on their agility and strength to catch their prey. Despite these differences, the public often uses the terms “falcon” and “hawk” interchangeably due to their common association with formidable predators in the sky.
So, let’s learn the difference between falcon and hawk and clear up any confusion you might have about these two birds.
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Falcons vs Hawks: What’s the difference?
Here are the most significant differences between falcon and hawk:
Size:
- One of the most significant differences between hawks and falcons is their size.
- In general, hawks are larger than falcons, from 8 to 30 inches.
- On the other hand, falcons are very petite and range in size from 8 to 25 inches.
Head and beak size:
- The hawk has a pointed tip, while the falcon has a round and short head.
- The falcon has a short and curved beak, while the hawk has a long and pointed beak.
- The hawk has no groove at the end of the beak, which is used by the falcon to kill prey.
Wingspan
- The hawk has a larger wingspan than the falcon.
- The hawk has wide and curved wings, while the falcon has thin and tapered wings.
Speed
- Falcons are considered superior to both if we consider their speed.
- While falcons can fly at 200 mph, hawks flap their wings very slowly and mostly glide through the air.
Method of killing
- The hawk relies on its powerful talons to capture and subdue its prey.
- Falcons, on the other hand, use grooves or “teeth” on their beaks to capture their prey.
Habitat
- Hawks prefer to reside in areas where they can identify prey, such as deserts and farms. They can exist anywhere and are found in high plains as well as in tropical, humid places.
- Falcons can be found practically anywhere on the planet, including grasslands, deserts, polar tundra, and forests.
Storage status
- IUCN has listed 51 species of hawks, of which 7 are in danger of extinction, 5 are vulnerable and 2 are in the endangered group.
- Of the 34 falcon species listed, three are considered near-threatened, five are considered vulnerable, and two are on the verge of extinction as endangered.
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Falcon vs Hawk: Which is stronger?
In general, hawks tend to be stronger than falcons. The hawk has the advantage of being smaller and faster, but the hawk is bigger and stronger.
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