SHARP-SHINNED HAWK CALLS: Learn their TWO most common sounds! (2025)
In this video, you will learn how to identify the CALLS and SOUNDS of a Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus).
Please make sure to "like" this ID video and SUBSCRIBE to @BirdWatchingHQ. Check out the LIVE bird and animal cameras streaming from my backyard.
During most of the year, Sharp-shinned Hawks are silent. But during the breeding season, they become quite vocal! It's common to hear them in residential areas since they are commonly seen near bird feeders hunting birds.
HERE ARE THE TWO MOST COMMON SOUNDS THAT SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS MAKE:
00:13 SOUND #1: "kik-kik-kik-kik"
The most common sound is a shrill, high-pitched βkik-kik-kik" call. Both sexes make this sound during courtship and as an alarm call near the nest. Due to their smaller size, males generally sound higher pitched than females.
00:38 SOUND #2: The flying squeal
The second call Sharp-shinned Hawks make is a sharp, single-note squeal. This squealing call is typically given while in flight. Mated pairs also use this single-note call to keep in contact with their partner.
SIMILAR SOUNDS:
The call of a Sharp-shinned Hawk is sometimes confused with a Cooper's Hawk. If you listen closely, a Sharp Shinned Hawk will sound higher pitched, whereas a Cooper's Hawk is lower and sounds like "kak-kak-kak" instead of "kik-kik-kik." You can listen to a Cooper's Hawk here to compare: https://youtu.be/OFHe3eJFGwo
Credit for the recordings:
Macaulay Library at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology
Recordists: Jay McGowan, Gregory Budney, Peter Paul Kellogg
Images used under license from Shutterstock.com.
π Video Statistics
π§ About This Track
π How to Get the Most Out of This Audio
To fully enjoy "SHARP-SHINNED HAWK CALLS: Learn their TWO most common sounds! (2025)", we recommend the following approach:
- Set the Scene: Find a comfortable position, dim the lights if possible, and minimize distractions.
- Use Quality Audio: Headphones or quality speakers will enhance the experience significantly.
- Adjust Volume: Keep the volume at a comfortable background level - loud enough to hear, quiet enough to relax.
- Enable Loop: Click the Loop button above for continuous play during your session.
- Try the Mixer: Use our Ambient Sound Mixer below to customize the audio with additional sound layers.
This 1:50 track is ideal for relaxation, focus, sleep. With 106.5K views, it has become a trusted choice for thousands of listeners worldwide.