These birds of prey prefer areas where they can roost fairly high and watch over a wide flat area for prey. In New England they feed mostly on mammals such as rabbits, squirrels and mice. In the desert parts of the continent they feed mostly on snakes. To protect themselves from bites the red tailed hawk has a thick scale covering on its legs. After landing on the snake it will pin the prey item's head as quickly as possible to prevent retaliation.
Usually you can see these birds in flight, circling in the air watching for prey. I also hear their calls a fair amount even in the city.
Sources:
Frances, Peter (senior editor) (2007) Bird. DK Publishing: New York, New York.
National Geographic: http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/birds/red-tailed-hawk/
Cornel Lab of Ornithology: http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Red-tailed_Hawk/id
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