Watch out for migratory hawks on rural Alberta roads

With hawks being a common sight in Foothills County, drivers are advised to take extra caution on rural roads.

Since the beginning of July, the Alberta Institute for Wildlife Conservation (AIWC) has taken in 29 immature migratory hawks throughout Alberta, over 50 per cent of which were injured in vehicle collisions, said communications coordinator Scottie Potter.

"Roadkill attracts these young hawks to roadsides, but they lack the strong flight skills that would allow them to escape oncoming traffic," she said, adding that birds can take weeks to recover from vehicle collisions and often require surgery and extensive rehabilitation to properly heal.

"We are calling on Albertans to help juvenile hawks on their first fall migration journeys by lowering speeds while driving on rural roads, especially at night," said Potter. "This reduces the likelihood of hitting wildlife."

Migratory birds of prey in the Foothills include Swainson's and red-tailed hawks, both commonly seen soaring through rural areas in the summer. 

In addition to keeping an eye out for hawks in flight, drivers are also advised to secure waste in vehicles, which can keep all wildlife off roads. Leaving organic waste on roadsides attracts prey animals, which in turn attracts predators such as hawks. 

AIWC, located on 10 acres in Madden, currently houses about 40 wild animals for rehabilitation, including bear cubs, a bobcat kitten, deer fawns and a multitude of young hawks. 

If an injured hawk or other animal is found and in need of help, call AIWC’s Wildlife Hotline at 403-946-2361.

Learn more about hawk rehabilitation on the latest episode of Alberta Wildlife Insider, AIWC’s educational YouTube series.