STATUS: Uncommon.
HABITAT: Inhabits various types of mixed and deciduous forests and open woodlands including small woodlots, riparian woodlands in dry country, open arid pinyon woodlands, and forested mountainous regions. May use almost any type of habitat containing trees or shrubs during winter and in migration.
SPECIAL HABITAT REQUIREMENTS: Mature coniferous or deciduous woodlands.
NEST: Usually nests in deciduous or coniferous trees near the edge of a wooded area, with large open fields and water nearby. Places nest from 20 to 60 feet above ground (usually 35 to 45 feet). Occasionally uses old crow nests.
FOOD: Hunts from inconspicuous perches, and catches its prey, primarily birds, by surprise. Consumes medium-sized birds such as thrushes, jays, starlings, and quail primarily but also takes smaller birds and larger birds up to the size of ruffed grouse. Also eats chipmunks, red squirrels, rabbits, other small mammals, amphibians, and insects.
REFERENCES: DeGraff et al. 1980, Evans 1982, Heintzelman 1979, Jones 1979, Reynolds et al. 1982.