41. ~ Hawk ~

The red-tailed hawk is a magnificent bird, with a strong, hooked beak. It has large curved claws, rounded wings, and a long reddish fan of tail feathers. It has a raspy cry , and an eerie scream. Many of the movies we watch use the call of the red-tailed hawk when they film an eagle. This particular hawk is one and a half to two feet in length. Their wingspan is approximately four or more feet. They have a darkish band across the stomach area, and a contrasting white chest. The females are generally bigger in size. This beauty weighs one and a half to three or more pounds (45 - 65 cm). The females are two to four or more pounds. While in flight, a red-tailed hawk seldom flaps its wings. To witness them soaring the sky is an awesome experience. This bird can fly up to one hundred and twenty miles per hour (190 km/h). While walking upon the ground its movements are awkward and very slow. They are generally nonaggressive creatures. During their amazing aerial performances the red-tailed hawk mates with its partner. The females lay a clutch of one to three eggs around the month of April. To Native Americans this bird is 'sacred' as well as its red tail feathers. These feathers are protected under the Eagle Feather Law.

Medicine:

To the Ojibway (Chippewa) and other nations the red-tailed hawk is a "heavenly messenger!" Hawk medicine tells us to check our telephone, our email, and our mailbox for important messages. You should also pay close attention to what a friend or stranger has to say to you. Within their communication you will often find an answer or acquire wisdom you've been seeking. Hawk medicine teaches that we don't have to be great in all areas of our life, but we should identify our greatest talent and then strive to hone and perfect it, until it soars.