Red-tails have a fairly broad range of dietary items including carrion
and sometimes animals larger then they can carry. They will
occasionally take a larger animal and feed on the ground rather then
attempting to carry the prey off. That being said, both the cat and dog
are likely larger then typical Red Tailed prey. Prey selection is often
based on a risk-reward basis. From a hawk's point of view both of these
animals might be too much to handle - and might result in serious injury
to the hawk. The condition of the potential prey animals is relevant
too...a young (but full grown) vigorous dog or cat is a much more
formidable prospect then an elderly or otherwise infirm pet.
There was a red-tailed hawk that reportedly killed a Chihuahua in
Suffolk over the winter...that dog only weighed about 3 1/2 lbs.
Keeping the animals inside unless supervised is likely the best
solution.
Good Luck,
Steve
Stephen Living
Watchable Wildlife Biologist
Virginia Dept. of Game & Inland Fisheries
________________________________
From: va-bird-bounces@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
[mailto:va-bird-bounces@xxxxxxxxxxxxx] On Behalf Of KEN A LIPSHY
Sent: Monday, August 18, 2008 8:50 PM
To: VirginiaListServe
Subject: [Va-bird] Red Tails
Are there any experts on Red Tailed hawks out there?
There have 3-4 that have been hanging out on the large power lines in
our neighborhood in Hampton.
I noticed today they were in the tree in my yard.
When I went out on the porch one took off and flew over the yard.
Anyone know what the maximum weight they can carry is?
My wife's Yorkie is about 13 # and the cat is about 8-10#.
They both like to hang out in the back yard.
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