The Zone-tailed Hawk is a medium-sized raptor of the arid Southwest, notable for its habit of mimicking the flight pattern of Turkey Vultures to approach prey undetected. In Arizona, it is most often found in the southeastern and central parts of the state, especially in canyons, foothills, and along riparian corridors with nearby open areas for hunting. Adults are mostly black with two narrow white tail bands and a broader white band near the tail tip, and they soar with wings slightly raised, rocking side to side like vultures. They feed on small mammals, birds, reptiles, and occasionally carrion, typically hunting by surprise from above. Breeding in Arizona usually occurs from late spring into summer, with nests placed in tall trees or on cliff ledges, often near water. Though uncommon and localized, the Zone-tailed Hawk is a regular summer breeder and migrant in the state, withdrawing southward into Mexico in winter.
