What is the difference between hawk and falcon?

Answer 1

Falcons are smaller and faster. For example, the Peregrine Falcon is not very strong, but can reach incredible speeds that allow them to grab a small bird or mammal for lunch (such as a pigeon or rabbit). On the contrary, the Red Tailed Hawk is much more powerful and utilizes its talons to take out small mammals, other birds, fish, and the like.

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With regard to "falcons are a type of hawk" - Falcons (Falconidae) and hawks (Accipitridae) are genetically unrelated-- while hawks are related to eagles, falcons are more closely related to parrots and Songbirds. Both are adapted for different prey and hunting styles. Falcons are primarily mid air hunters taking out quail, small ducks and pigeons although they will not turn down a rodent lunch. Hawks (such as the red tailed) are primarily ground hunters focusing more on fish, rodents and a variety of ground mammals. Hawks will take out other birds but are better adapted for ground prey. The most amazing difference is the the falcon's speed. Look up the "stoop" for details. Falcons have been recorded as diving in excess of 200 mph!

Answer 2

There are so many differences, it would be difficult to write them all down. Falcons are smaller than hawks, and their wings are narrower. Hawks are refered to as broadwings because of their broad(wide) and rounded wings, while falcons are referred to as longwings because of their long pointed wings. Hawk wings are designed for better manoeuvring and soaring, and falcon wings are designed for speed and cutting through the air. These are just differences of the wings.

Answer 3

Actually, falcons are one of the various types of hawks.