The Ferruginous Hawk (Buteo regalis) is the largest hawk in North America, renowned for its rust-colored plumage, broad wings, and powerful build. Preferring open prairies and arid grasslands, it is a skilled hunter, often seen soaring or perched high to spot prey. It feeds primarily on small mammals.

Buteo regalis, commonly known as the Ferruginous Hawk, is native to North America. Its geographical distribution primarily includes the western United States, southern Canada, and northern Mexico. Key areas include the Great Plains, intermountain regions, and various western states such as Montana, Colorado, Wyoming, and southwards to Texas and Arizona.

The Ferruginous Hawk typically inhabits open landscapes, preferring grasslands, shrublands, and deserts. It thrives in arid to semi-arid climates, often found in areas with wide, open spaces that facilitate hunting. The climate in these regions varies from cold winters to hot summers, with moderate precipitation.

As a top predator, the Ferruginous Hawk plays a crucial role in controlling populations of small mammals, its primary prey. It is well-adapted to hunting in open fields and is often seen soaring at high altitudes. The species exhibits some regional adaptations, such as variations in nesting sites, which can range from cliff edges to isolated trees or even artificial structures in open fields.