One of the Smallest Hawks

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Admit #24-4638

On a cold December day, a Hunterdon County resident found an unlikely visitor in their yard: this Sharp-shinned Hawk (pictured)!

The kind individual carefully collected the bird and brought it here to TRT’s Infirmary, where our Rehab Technicians quickly began their examination and assessment. The bird had apparently suffered from an impact, and it had some discharge in its mouth.

So far, we have treated the bird for a bacterial infection and two different intestinal parasites. After a few days it was improving enough to move into a bigger enclosure where flight would be possible - while it can fly, it is flying low so this bird is scheduled to receive an X-ray of its right shoulder.

This Sharp-shinned Hawk may have been wintering in New Jersey, or may have been passing through on its migration journey from its breeding grounds in Canada to warmer destinations in South America. For now, though, it will stay in care here at TRT until it regains its strength and health.

Sharp-shinned Hawks are the smallest accipiters in North America: they are only slightly larger than your average blue jay! They prefer to hunt in wooded areas and are known for their agile flight. Unfortunately, they face challenges such as habitat loss, which has led to their designation as a species of special concern by the NJDEP. Your support helps ensure these beautiful birds receive the care they need during their migration.