The Red Tail Hawk is one of 3 hawks we see in Colorado, and the one that is in Colorado year around. They are permanent natives of the area, but we will also see Red Tail's that migrate. They hunt and eat small mammals like rabbits, prairie dogs, mice, etc. Contrary to popular belief they do not prey on domestic animals like cats or dogs. You can blame the Great Horned Owls for that.
Basic characteristics of a Red Tail are very dark to light brown chest and wings, with the obvious, the bright red tail feathers that give it its name. It is not always visible though, depending on the direction of the light and t he viewing light.
There is a pair of Red Tail Hawks that inhabit this area, and also have a nest nearby. You can see from time to time the big female flying around, and sometimes she will be with one or two of her immature offspring. They will fly with one of the parents for the first several months to watch them hunt and to learn better flying skills like finding thermals to soar in. I have seen the female fly to the nest many times with a snake either in her talons or beak. There are still enough open fields around here that have wildlife for hunting.
There is a Leucistic hawk Red Tail hawk that frequents this area, and the interesting about it is that it is totally white! This hawk was born with genetic disposition that makes its feathers completely white, including its tail. This is a condition that is seen in one of several thousand hawks. This hawk has been in the news lately because it was injured two different times and was rescued. So if you see a hawk-size bird that is totally white you are in luck! Go out and buy a lottery ticket - FAST!