Species: Red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis)
Intake Date: 2018
Ruby, our female resident Red-Tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis), was found in 2018 walking up to people begging for food and then taking food from their hand if offered. Because of this uncharacteristic behavior, a member of the public called the Illinois Raptor Center (IRC), where she was declared physically healthy. Unfortunately, she was too habituated to humans to be released back into the wild. Due to her calm demeanor, willingness to participate in training, and overall good health, she became a permanent resident and ambassador for the Wildlife Medical Clinic. Fun Facts: Red-Tailed Hawks usually develop their famous red tail around a year of age, and their eyes change from yellow to brown around two years of age, when they are mature. These hawks are one of the largest birds in North America. Their shrieks are also quite magnificent; so much so, that most movies and TV shows use the cries of a Red-Tail Hawk for any eagle or hawk that appears on-screen!