Redtail hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) eating part of a young pheasant (family Phasianidae). This is an extremely versatile hawk. It inhabits tropical forest in the West Indies, the prairies and also the deserts of the western USA. Its prey corresponds to its different habitats and consists of small mammals, birds, insects and fish. It is capable of skillful and rapid flight which makes it an extremely effective predator. The redtail hawk is a nesting bird and will construct its nest according to its habitat; anywhere from small trees to old cactus stems.