Hawks are birds of prey that belong to the family Accipitridae, which also includes eagles, kites, harriers and buzzards. Hawks are widely distributed and can be found on all continents except Antarctica. They have sharp talons and beaks, and high visual acuity. They hunt by dashing suddenly from a concealed perch or by descending or pouncing on their prey.

There are many different species of hawks, but they can be broadly divided into two groups: the accipitrine hawks and the buteonine hawks. The accipitrine hawks, also known as the bird hawks or true hawks, are mainly woodland birds with long tails and slender bodies. They include goshawks, sparrowhawks, sharp-shinned hawks and others. The buteonine hawks, also known as the buzzard hawks, are broad-winged, wide-tailed and sturdy birds that soar in open areas. They include red-tailed hawks, rough-legged hawks, ferruginous hawks and others.

Hawks vary in size, color and shape depending on their species and habitat. However, they share some common characteristics that make them excellent predators. Hawks have keen eyesight that allows them to spot their prey from a distance. They can see in color and have a binocular vision that gives them depth perception. Hawks also have powerful feet with curved claws that can grip and kill their prey. Their beaks are hooked and strong, and can tear apart flesh and bones. Hawks have a rapid metabolism and a high body temperature that help them fly fast and agile.

Hawks can adapt to a variety of habitats, from forests to deserts to mountains to grasslands. They can live in tropical, temperate or arctic regions. Some hawks are resident birds that stay in the same area year-round, while others are migratory birds that travel long distances between their breeding and wintering grounds. Hawks can be found in both urban and rural areas, as long as they have enough food and shelter.

Hawks are carnivorous birds that feed on small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds and insects. They hunt mostly during the day, using their sharp vision and hearing to locate their prey. They can fly at high speeds and maneuver through obstacles to catch their prey. Some hawks hunt alone, while others hunt in pairs or groups. Hawks are territorial birds that defend their nesting sites from intruders. They communicate with each other using vocalizations and body language.

Hawks usually mate for life and form monogamous pairs. They build nests in trees, cliffs or buildings using sticks, twigs, leaves and feathers. The female hawk lays two to six eggs per clutch and incubates them for about a month. The male hawk brings food to the female and the chicks. The chicks hatch with downy feathers and closed eyes. They grow rapidly and fledge after six to ten weeks. They stay with their parents for a few more weeks until they learn how to hunt and survive on their own. Hawks can live up to 20 years in the wild.

Hawks have been admired and revered by many cultures throughout history for their strength, courage and beauty. They have been used as symbols of power, wisdom and freedom by various religions, nations and organizations. They have also been associated with war, hunting and prophecy by some myths and legends. Hawks have been trained by humans for falconry since ancient times. Today, hawks are protected by laws and conservation efforts that aim to preserve their habitats and populations.