Alabama’s Red-Tailed Hawks

There is never a dull moment when you’re keeping an eye on the Alabama skyline. Whether you’re hiking through a field or just cruising up Highway 69 North in Walker County, nature has a way of putting on a show right through your windshield.

Recently, we witnessed something incredible: a massive Red-tailed Hawk soaring directly over the car, clutching a bright green snake in its talons.

The “Snek-Fast” Buffet

It turns out this isn’t just a random snack. While Red-tailed Hawks are famous for hunting rodents, they are expert snake hunters. During nesting season, they have a very specific “to-go” order:

The Target: Often non-venomous snakes like the Rough Green Snake, which is common across Alabama.
The Mission: Taking protein back to the nest. When they have young chicks (eyasses) to feed, a snake is like a long, nutritious protein bar.
The Technique: They use those powerful talons to pin the snake’s head and neck instantly, making it a safe delivery for the babies back home.

A Pattern of Behavior

This wasn’t our first time seeing the “flying snake” phenomenon. We’d spotted it before while walking near the house—a hawk gliding over a field with a snake dangling beneath it. At the time, we weren’t sure what we were looking at, but after a bit of research, it’s clear the Red-tailed Hawk is the reigning champion of Alabama’s pest control.

Helping Hand (Or Talon)

I’m all for natural pest control. Every snake that ends up in a hawk’s nest is one less snake slithering around the yard. It’s a win-win for the ecosystem and for those of us who aren’t exactly looking to make friends with the local reptile population.

A Fair Warning to the Hawks:

I know you’re a protected species, and I respect the hustle. I’m glad you’re out there doing the heavy lifting. But let’s make an agreement: Keep a tight grip. If you decide to drop a live green snake on me while I’m walking or driving, all “protected status” goes out the window!

Red-Tailed Hawk Quick Facts

Feature	Description
Scientific Name	Buteo jamaicensis
Diet	Small mammals, birds, and reptiles (snakes)
Wingspan	Can reach up to 4 feet
Status	Federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act