Hood College prides itself in being an inclusive institute for students of all walks of life, however, one resident has been turning heads; a hawk has made Hood its home.
Over the last few semesters, this hawk has been a joy to observe by both students and faculty. Perching on campus trees and rooftops, the young hawk can be seen overlooking his home and neighbors. This hawk is most likely a red-tailed hawk, one the most common breeds in North America, with a worldwide population of approximately 2.3 million, according to “All About Birds.”
The young hawk has been enthusiastically keeping the saturated squirrel population in check during its time on campus. According to “All About Birds,” a hawk’s diet includes mammals. Its victims frequently include voles, mice, wood rats, rabbits, and squirrels.
While the hawk can be seen all across campus, it is seen mostly on the northeastern side of campus, including the residential quad, Strawn Cottage, and Carson Cottage.
With its frequent presence on campus, the native avian is the source of conversation for many students.
“I love him,” Michelle Shedd, an undergraduate student and environmental studies major, said. “I love him so much, I hope he eats all the little squirrels.”
Melissa Dryman, a senior and studio arts major, thinks highly of the hawk as well, mentioning she has tried to photograph it in the past.
As spring and warmer weather begins, it will be exciting to see if more birds of prey join our hawk on campus.
Be the first to comment