The Common Black Hawk is an uncommon but regular summer breeding raptor in Arizona, primarily found along riparian corridors in the southeastern part of the state, especially in cottonwood–willow-lined rivers and streams. Slightly larger than a Red-shouldered Hawk, it has broad wings, a short tail with a bold white band, and dark plumage that appears almost black in good light. These hawks feed mainly on crayfish, frogs, and other small aquatic prey, often hunting from low perches over water. In Arizona, they typically arrive in March or April to nest and depart by late summer or early fall, with a few lingering into October. Their nests, large stick structures often placed high in cottonwoods, are usually reused year after year. Although their North American range is limited, Arizona supports a significant portion of the U.S. breeding population, making them a sought-after species for birders in the state.
