meaning of red-tailed hawk symbolism

Spirit Animals: RED-TAILED HAWK ALLIANCE

Red-tails adapt easily to life with and around humans and, in general, are more in service to humanity than other hawk species. There is a famous red-tailed hawk that has nested on the side of a skyscraper on the edge of New York City’s Central Park for over twenty years. The male hawk, known as “Pale Male”, has an entire film documentary about him, his various mates, and his young.

It seems that the spirits prefer to send red-tails as messengers because of their gregarious and more approachable nature. In a sense, they are the labrador retrievers of the hawk world and both in spirit and in the flesh they can be our loyal best friends. The are also very conspicuous, found throughout North America in nearly every type of open or semi-open habitat. Seeing red-tailed hawks is such a common occurrence that one may miss the significance of red-tailed hawk symbolism all together, but just because a host of angels are sent to the skies above you doesn’t mean you should ignore them.

Symbolism of Red-Tailed Hawk Feathers

The red tail feathers of this hawk are extremely significant as they bring strong power in relation to the first chakra, otherwise known as the root chakra. The first chakra relates to situations and circumstances around family, friends, and community. Here is where our insecurities around being abandoned, outcast, and left alone are held. Here are our worries about being humiliated. To have red feathers at this chakra that is characterized by the color red amplifies the power of this message and demonstrates how integral these hawks can be in helping us work through healing wounds around our sense of belonging in tribes.

Red as a color relates to love, anger, and passion, matters we’d typically associate with the heart, but this is the personal heart, the one that ties us intimately with those we come into contact with on a daily basis.

If you look closely at the tail of a red-tail, you will see a thin black horizontal line running across the base of the feathers with each feather tipped by white. Red-tails are divine messengers meant to bring guidance from the heavens and ground the guidance out in the physical world. In grounding out the guidance (black line) the realms of spirit (white tip) are available even in the lowest, most mundane places. Many of a red-tail’s feathers are “barred” with multiple dark lines. This is a common feature of hawk feathers and speaks to how they are able to navigate multiple altitudes and embody many layers of understanding.

Relationship to the Tribe

Each red-tailed hawk has a unique plumage (coat of feathers), so despite the fact that they are literally one in a million of their kind, each is a unique individual with an important story to tell. In my book Gracious Wild: A Shamanic Journey with Hawks I tell the story written on the breast of my best friend, Graccia the female red-tailed hawk I worked with in a raptor education program:

I stood memorizing every single feather on her body. Each was as unique as a snowflake. Then, like peering through a looking glass, noticed a figure on one of the contour feathers among those in her belly. It was in the shape of a spirit, much like that of an angel. The spirit’s arms were straight out and it wore a long flowing robe that extended across the tip of Graccia’s feather. I took a step back and widened my focus. Before me stood a gathering of angels spanning the width of her breast. As I absorbed the entire picture I was without breath. Below the feathers painted with spirits were feathers hatched with horizontal lines. In reading the story written there, I saw that these markings represented the earth. The earth lines rose to form a fleet of spirits that looked like robed angels with arms outstretched. The spirit fleet then morphed into vertical lines, beings of light, shooting into the heavens. The pattern was so plainly written at this moment outside time. The story told on her breast was that of enlightened beings that are born of the earth and then merged with the heavens.

The fact that these stories are demonstrated on the hawk’s chests like a “shield” harkens back to family and tribal shields or coats of armor. If you had to draw the coat of armor for your family or your current tribe, what would it look like? If you are yearning for a new tribe, draw that coat of armor. Imagine what it would look like painted in cream and brown in the feathers of a hawk. Know that “your” people are out there.

The path may be to grow your own self-esteem so that you have the courage to be vulnerable with those around you. Graccia helped me open up and connect with those around me in a profound way, helping me see my tribe wherever I go now. Another opportunity may be to go out and risk making new friends and trying new things. With the image of your tribe to guide you, you will know your people when you meet them.

 

Find your spirit animal workshop. Painting of red-tailed hawk.

 

Divine Messengers

An overabundance of red-tailed hawk spirit animals in our lives can mean that our prayers are being answered… the answers are being brought to us on hawk’s wings. What are you wishing for right now? What are your dreams? Are you able to recognize the gifts being brought to you and the doors open before you?

If you are not able to see the gifts coming your way the red-tails may be coming to assist you and to CALL your attention to them. They can help you identify who in your tribe is granting and fostering these gifts. The hawks may be calling your attention to old habits, patterns, or defenses that are getting in the way of you relating to your fellow humans. Listen and be willing to let your guard down. Trust your reputation into the talons of the red-tail and you will be rewarded.

Red-tailed hawks typically hunt by either using the power of the wind to hold them aloft while they soar or by roosting on a high perch. Aloft or perched, they wait quietly and watch carefully. Once they see a mouse move below them they swoop down on their prey in a slow, controlled dive. The message here is to not waste your energy tirelessly trying to stir up the answer, but to find a high vantage and to take in the whole picture.

With red-tailed hawk symbolism, it’s time to become the observer and see things from a mystical perspective. This is not about being “better than” your tribe-mates, but about seeing things away from your ties to worry about what others will think of you. From this wide-angle view, wait to see a glimmer of movement and use your sharp, keen vision to focus in on what caught your attention. Then you can confidently dive down and grasp hold of the knowing.

Hawk spirit animals in general are about vision and the ability to shift from a wide view to a microscopic focus. It may be time for you to review your life to get in touch with a larger vision and purpose while at the same time checking in to make sure that you are focusing on key relationships. Look for the gifts of your tribe, revel in the gifts of your life, and give thanks to divine messengers. You can release your gratitude to the red-tails and they will carry the memo back to the heavens on your behalf.

gracious wild book by stacey couch

Stacey Couch

About Author, Stacey L. L. Couch

Stacey Couch is a Spiritual Advisor who supports creative seekers learning as they go on the spiritual path. She serves beginner and life-long students of the soul. Her compassionate and collaborative approach honors the humanity and value of each person. Wisdom found in story, mysticism, and nature provide guidance and healing in her work. Through meeting with Stacey, lost souls find refuge. Connection to the Divine is realized. Belonging comes. She is the author of Gracious Wild: A Shamanic Journey with Hawks. Learn About working with Stacey
317 replies
  1. Greg
    Greg says:

    Great post. I’ve been mesmerized by hawks since I was a child. Thank you for the information in the paragraph concerning the hunt and keeping a wide angle view until the right moment of focus on the knowing.

    Reply
    • Melanie
      Melanie says:

      Wow….I just had two young hawks fly into the window…one sat on the lawn, stunned…and the other one died 10ft in front of me. I’m stunned now & wondering of the great gift this bird is messaging me w its death! The other one has flown off into the bush, hoping it survives as its not in the air yet!

      Reply
        • Stacey Couch
          Stacey Couch says:

          Wow Holly! That’s pretty wild that you and Melanie would have exactly the same experience. Birds do fly into windows by mistake fairly often, but to have two do that is not as common. It is really startling and then upsetting when this happens. The loss of the one hawk’s life and the shaking up of the other definitely is a stop sign for your life. Time to take a pause and ask what in you and/or in your life needs your immediate attention right now? What illusion (the window) are you running into? It’s time to give up believing the illusion and to find the truth. Many Blessings, Stacey

          Reply
          • Laurie
            Laurie says:

            I have been going through a transformation in the last year. A few months ago my intuitions and sight of the future to help people prior to them coming is getting stronger. I often pray for signs of answers and sure enough God sends all types of insects, bugs and animals. I often feel the most love from God when I walk this park. Today I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw in the tree up so close to me looking right at me a red tailed hawk. I watched for a bit and kept walking. All that came into my head was the word God several times. I came back an hour later and he was on the ground finishing a mouse. He never flew off. Just walked closer to me. I’m seeing from your post that what I have been praying for for the last 20 months, I need to recognize my gifts and continue to lead at a higher level! Thanks for the post!’

          • Stacey Couch
            Stacey Couch says:

            You are so welcome Laurie! What a pleasure too for me to know that another generous soul like you is out there listening and relating with the wild ones. Bless you, Stacey

          • Trish DeCicco
            Trish DeCicco says:

            Thanks so much for your post, Stacey! I went to visit my Dad’s grave today. On the way back I found the huge feather of a red tailed hawk, and was looking up its significance when I found this post. Phew! Kinda mind blowing to me…

          • karen jensen rn, bsn, ccma
            karen jensen rn, bsn, ccma says:

            Hi Stacy. My son was driving to go get gas and a hawk was stopped on the road and scooped up a squirrel and just SAT there frozen staring at my son for a long time then took off with the squirrel. I told him there’s a deeper meaning. I read your post and feel it’s right on about self esteem and the tribe. Both are issues for my son right now.

          • Stacey Couch
            Stacey Couch says:

            Hello Karen, Thank you for sharing the connections between what your son is working with and what you read. I don’t know if this is for him to get at this time, but you having a deeper appreciation for his situation might allow you to hold him with more compassion, acceptance and understanding. Holding space for a loved one’s transformation is as great a service as giving advise. Many Blessings, Stacey

    • Mike
      Mike says:

      I opened my Front Door a Hawk just sitting there, he looked hurt we called for help and he Died on my Steps! I feel so bad am praying and burying him in my Garden! I think the Lord sent him to Us

      Reply
    • Christy Mathes
      Christy Mathes says:

      I have a male and female red tail hawks that follow me at work and home that always come within feet of me everyday have almost flown up to me not in an aggressive way just like they feel me they dont scare me and i dont scare them almost like they understand what i say to them just curious of why

      Reply
    • Melissa DiBernardo
      Melissa DiBernardo says:

      As I continuesly receive guided msgs. through many variables, many come through nature & spirit animals. The enormity may even sound like a story, if told all at one time. I’ve worked with animals my entire life, both professionally & personally, yet falling in love with birds only about four years ago. Anyway..! I wanted to comment on your most eloquent, insightful description of the symbolism in finding a red tailed hawk feather. I’ve stumbled upon 3 significantly different feathers than usual in the past 4 days or so. The significance & relation to aspects of current life scenarios are always astonishing fascinating to me. I therefore am constantly looking up meanings, to unveil the communication from above. I appreciate & admire your intimate information on the red tailed hawk representation. Thank you kindly. Currently in search of where to best situate myself in this changing world, to be of service to others & for the Universe’s greatest good, what you do sounds fantastic to me. Thank you for sharing your profound experience! Be well!

      Reply
    • Tiffany S
      Tiffany S says:

      Thank you! Yesterday I felt called to go outside for some sunshine during a break at work and there were 3 red tailed hawks circling and calling in the sky above me. I’ve never seen more than 1 at a time! It was incredible and felt very special. Not sure what it meant…maybe to feel supported and encouraged to explore my spiritual gifts instead of my corporate career…currently experiencing a lot of fear thinking about this shift.
      ????

      Reply
  2. Suzy
    Suzy says:

    Thank you for this very interesting information. I found a red tail hawk feather and my heart leaped when i saw it. I did not know about them and then found your site…thanks, I will ponder all you said.

    Reply
  3. Hayley
    Hayley says:

    Beautiful post. Just today we found a red tailed hawk with an injured wing and he allowed us to pick him up and bring him home with no problem. Very calm and patient. We are waiting on wildlife control right now. Thank you for the information! Beautiful creatures!

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Hayley, I hope your story had a happy ending and your visitor is on the mend. If he crossed over to the other side, I would like to extend my gratitude for your service in offering him care in his moment of need. You are most welcome for the information. It is my honor to be of service.

      Reply
  4. John Peebles
    John Peebles says:

    Thank you so much for this information!! I read this post in tears of joy lol For the last 10 or so years, I’ve noticed these hawks show up in the most odd(to me odd, no to the universe) times of my life. So frequently to the point I researched them to find out exactly what kind of bird they are. So I find out they’re “Red-Tailed Hawks”, cool no biggie. But why do they keep presenting themselves to me? I’m never looking for them. They fly extremely close, and seeing them is such a phenomenal sensation to me. Why is this?? Then something intuitively came to me, telling me that they were “guides”. Whenever I see them, I automatically feel like “I’m in the right place”. Then years later to here (today) I read this article, and it confirms everything 100% wow

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      I am so delighted John to hear that you have not only noticed the grace of the Red-tail’s presence, but that you have embraced it as part of your life story. The tribe of hawks couldn’t be any happier I’m sure. I’d love to hear your thoughts on my book about Graccia, the very special red-tail, if you get a chance to read it.

      Reply
    • Michael mintz
      Michael mintz says:

      I or we as a family are steadily moving towards a better life by remodeling this house we will be moving into as soon as we can. Doing all the work ourselves and also holding down jobs is a slow process. Just sunday morning while i was over there i seen a red tail hawk in a tree by this old bridge behind our house. I felt a deeper connection, a deeper meaning to it. Almost like my mother telling me im doing what im supoose to be and keep moving forward. She passed away jan 7th this year . i felt peace when i see that red tail hawk on our property .

      Reply
  5. John Peebles
    John Peebles says:

    I most definitely will, as well as the rest of your material. I have discovered a gold mine!! thank you for sharing your special gifts with us. You are blessed!!

    Reply
  6. Fiona
    Fiona says:

    This morning I fed the songbirds as usual but my bag spilled a big pile of seeds in one spot instead of scattered, as usual. This afternoon, in the area where the seeds fell, I heard a gorgeous variety of birds outside my window. I leaned out and and they were flying and eating, singing and dodging squirrels. There were many fast little birds and the biggest seemed to be the blue jays flying together when suddenly a large swooping creature dove into the crowd of birds eating the seeds, from its perch above. After grabbing its choice, the shape moved onto the grass and I saw red tail feathers opening and the shape expanding bigger, then the large red-tailed hawk made off with its prey.
    The garden slowly resumed its feeding, singing and flying. What is the message?

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Thanks for sharing such a beautiful account of your observations Fiona! Here are some ideas on what the message might be: We so often think of death and loss as a terrible thing to be dreaded, feared, and avoided, but, as you experienced on this day, the animals are much more accustomed to and comfortable with death. For them it is part of life. The other birds didn’t go back to feeding and singing because they didn’t care, it is because they did and that is why they chose to go on and enjoy the life they are given. It being a red-tail that took the songbird is incredibly interesting because they don’t take other birds as prey that often. This may point to a light-hearted or carefree aspect of yourself (songbird) that has been or needs to be sacrificed/gifted to the tribe or larger vision of your life (red-tail). In our healing processes we so often accumulate healings and are constantly adding on to who we are to get better, but we can forget the important aspect of letting go of what is no longer needed. We often only want to let go of what we think are negative aspects, but sometimes expressions that we like must go too. This is similar to what happens as we grow into adulthood – the need to let go of the innocence that once was integral to who we were and now is holding us back from courageously moving forward. I would recommend considering this question, “what endearing part of yourself is it time to release to the greater good so that you have what you need to move forward with your work in the world?” My hope is that helps. Feel free to email me at info@wildgratitude.com so we can talk more in depth.

      Reply
      • Antorya Wilson
        Antorya Wilson says:

        Great article. I was driving down the road when a hawk flew across it. Didn’t know it was a hawk the colors caught my eyes. I went home and got camera to zoom in on it. Stood and watched it for a long while. Now a hawk actually hnags out in the neighborhood. Seems like ove r the last 7 months I’ve been sent several different spirit animal birds and when I read up on them the symbolism is so spot on.

        Reply
      • Chris
        Chris says:

        Thank you for this read. A male and female have a nest near a large tree in the back yard area. It had a. Baby. Today the baby was perched up on a pole even closer to my house. It would not fly just jumped back and forth. Mom kept swiping by as if to say come on you can do it

        Came back from an errand at 500 pm and it still was on pole. Went to shower and it somehow flew back to the tree but not the nest and is now jumping to make it’s way back.slowly I assume. I have had some significant deaths In my.life and i really always ask for them to help with signs. Today I also told a relationship of back and forth of 11 years to please stop coming back for just a short time to leave and hurt me with others that never work out. I feel after reading this the baby hawk and mom were saying be strong do not give up we are here

        Reply
  7. Dotti Smith
    Dotti Smith says:

    My husband and I both over the last 30 years have had experiences both together and separately with Hawks, almost all red tails. Once a red tail hawk dove down in front of our car and lead us to a property that we decided to buy. It turned out to be a positive overall experience for us.
    Three days ago,we saw 2 Hawks, male and female sitting pretty high up a tree just watching us. They watched us for the whole time we were walking our dog, approx 30 minutes. Christmas Eve they had flown to a very big tree behind our house, very high up looking directly at our house and us in the window. Today, the day after Christmas, my husband Kent went back to the high meadow to walk our dog and they were there again watching him.
    Could you tell us what this represents?

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      What lovely synchronicity Dotti! And you are very lucky to have the bond with your husband mirrored by the winged ones. Red-tails are an especially auspicious messenger in relation to partnering because they mate for life AND are cooperative nesters. They build the nest together and take turns incubating the eggs. With other species of hawks, the female does most or all of the incubating. The message here is definitely to consider cooperation in your marriage. Do you create new visions together (building the nest) and then share the work of manifesting what you’d like (shared incubation)? Is this something you strive for in your marriage? Regardless of the current picture, the pairs of Red-Tailed Hawks are asking the two of you to take a conscious look at the dynamic of creation in your marriage. How do you bring new things into the world together? Remember to think outside the box. This could be a home remodel, your garden, or any kind of project. It is worth noting that once the chicks hatch that the female takes over care of the young while the male does all the hunting. That doesn’t mean that you, as the wife, have to stay home and take care of what you’ve created together while your husband goes out to gather resources to support the endeavor. It just means that your roles will be different from each other once your project is in action and more visible. You are both fortunate to have these beautiful guides in your lives and I would say you have the Red-Tail as a power animal for your marriage – how fun!

      Reply
  8. Miranda Ciszewski
    Miranda Ciszewski says:

    Thank you for posting this information. It has settled some questions that have been on my mind and heart.
    My story of the Red-tailed Hawk (Derick- named by my children) is one that will be with me forever, so I figured I’d see what you thought of it..?
    It was in June of this summer, the 9th to be exact. I know this date well because it happens to be the birthday of my father in law, (who passed away in the Royal Oak Postal shooting when my husband was 10 yrs old). I saw Derick in the woods by my house. He was hopping around on the forest floor, periodically attempting to reach higher ground. I knew there had to be something wrong, so I recruited my husband for help and we actually managed to gather him up with a blanket. We luckily had an outdoor enclosure available (because of our not-so-happy-with-the-new-neighbor chickens) We did our best to make him comfortable while we waited to hear back from the wildlife rescue. The next day I received a call from the rescue centre and they told me they would send someone to come get Derick. When the man arrived he very gently handled “our” injured friend, then the man asked for our information so he could return Derick, if he made it.
    Now this is where this starts to get even more amazing!
    When we give the gentlemen our name, he kind of looks at us in amazement and says ” I used to have a friend with the last name Ciszewski” and low and behold he’s talking about my father in law! So not only did this incredible bird come into our lives on the date of my father-in-laws birth, but he also brought with him a man who had the pleasure of knowing my father-in-law!
    Coincidence? Unlikely.
    In October we were told that Derick made a full recovery. He was released back into our yard, with friends and family there to celebrate his return to freedom.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Miranda, I think that’s a fantastic story. I used to work in wildlife rehabilitation, so I can tell you that not all hawks are able to recover and be released. That is awesome that Derick is now back in the wild – all thanks to your brave rescue and the great work of the wildlife center! The timing of it and the fact the man knew your father-in-law is even more amazing! Clearly your father-in-law is sending his love on hawk wings and letting your family know that even though he’s not in the flesh, that he is still in your lives.

      Reply
  9. Meagen
    Meagen says:

    I just wanted to say thank you for this great insight. The day we laid my Dad to rest, there was two red tailed hawks circling his grave sight screeching. That was almost ten yrs ago. Now it seems like every time I have a rough day or what not, there is always a red tailed hawk never far away. Makes me feel like he is still here with me. Thank you and God bless

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      You are welcome Meagan. I can so relate to your story. A red-tailed hawk visited me at the exact time of my uncle’s death. He loved red-tails and their presence has helped my cousin who’s been battling cancer for 10 years. They remind her that her dad is still watching over her.

      Reply
  10. Mikaela
    Mikaela says:

    What if you dream about flying and one flys up next to you and let’s you touch it’s wings? I had that dream last night and I can’t get it out of my head.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      I wouldn’t forget a dream like that either! How awesome! Dreams of flying indicate a feeling of empowerment and the belief that anything is possible. Wings are related to personal freedom. Red-tails are messengers of the heavens, so being able to reach the heavens with them would indicate a belief in your own ability to communicate directly with the Divine. Whether this belief is conscious or not, I would suggest that your soul is speaking this deep truth to you.

      Reply
  11. Mikaela
    Mikaela says:

    Thank you Stacey! That was very insightful 🙂 and thank you very much for taking time to respond back. Happy New Years 🙂

    Reply
  12. beverly compton
    beverly compton says:

    My most cherish red tail hawk experience is lying in bed on my left side. My lower back had finally given out at age 40 – too many years of playing in the back country with no regard for my body. I gave up a year to recover from my lower disk injury without surgery and that day I looked up through a small bedroom window and there was a red tail flying straight up in the very narrow view the window offered. The hawk paused, tumbled and flew down out of my sight. The probability that I would see that bird in that window for that long is completely improbable, but I did. My back injury was one of the most challenging events in my life so far and that bird and others made me feel really special.

    Reply
  13. Kathy Samworth
    Kathy Samworth says:

    On the day of my Dad’s funeral (a little more than 3 years ago) a hawk (not sure if it was red tailed) flew past my kitchen window (have never seen a bird that big in our yard before or since). I went out to find it and it was perched on a tree in our yard. It sat there for a very long time as we gazed at each other. I knew that somehow Dad’s spirit was inside this bird. It was amazing. Recently, I’ve realized that I need some kind of practice to keep me connected to spirit. Earlier today, I was pondering what I can do. I went out for a walk in the woods and as soon as I entered the path, a red tailed hawk (absolutely beautiful) flew past me and perched itself on a branch near me. It was startling and amazing. I loved it. I think that part of my “practice” will be related to being in nature. What do you think?

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      What an amazing synthesis you’ve done Kathy! You were aware and saw the messenger, received the message, listened to your intuition and now have a plan to move forward. Lovely work. I couldn’t be happier for you. Thank you for sharing and do stay in touch!

      Reply
    • Kristen Moore
      Kristen Moore says:

      Today as I was driving to my dear friends funeral, a Red Tailed Hawk soared above me. It was beautiful as the snow was falling. We were one of the last to leave the service and there, perched above us in the parking lot, was the hawk looking down at us. Kayleen was a young, beautiful, child of God and I was in awe in seeing this beautiful, winged spirit sending us peace. I asked her daughter later on, what was your Mom’s favorite bird? A Red Tailed Hawk. It was such a beautiful message to me!

      Reply
      • Stacey Couch
        Stacey Couch says:

        Absolutely stunning Kristen! Thank you so much for sharing! Your story is a wonderful example of how the sacred and the mundane are woven together on hawk wings. I am so sorry for your loss and so glad to hear that you are receiving the much needed support of the winged ones. Many Blessings, Stacey

        Reply
  14. Shy
    Shy says:

    I have been visited before but never tuned in to the red tails presence in my life.
    I was leaving the barn Saturday evening it was dark out and pulling out of the driveway heading down the road out flys a red tail nearly plowing into my passenger side window, yes it certainly had my attention this time. After the shock of that just happening, a shooting star blazes across the sky. Now, signs everywhere. There’s SO much meaning in that shooting star for me, it holds a specific person that I’m suppose to spend my life with. (her name is Charrisa, she is also symbolized on my horse. My horse has a star brand with a C in the center) when I purchased my horse I wanted a sorrel gelding and my horse is a Dunn mare. I asked The Lord before seeing her that he would give my a sign. So when I saw the star with the C I knew it was my sign that she was for me. (Charrisa and I rent acres at this barn she also is the barn keeper. Feeds and turns out all the horses. Her and I have known one another for 4 years and just recently the past 2 months have we seen each other in a new light but she is in the middle of a separation/divorce which she must handle first.) You needed to know this back history.
    Back to the point, It’s Sunday eve now and I’m doing the daily routine of going out to the barn to feed, visit and be joyous and leaving at dark i pull out if the drive and swoop the Hawk dives at my front windshield. I then start diving into my mind wondering what it’s trying to tell me, show me. I research hawk totem guides and read. The next day which is Monday I head out to the barn a little earlier and Charissa is there with her sister and her niece. (Her sister knows about me and Charrisa new found friendship and so does the niece.) Charissa and i were having a pretty intense conversation about her son being depressed about the split between his father and his mother. 🙁 And out of the corner of my eye comes the hawk looking me directly in the eyes he perches on a tree right next to us. I throw my hands up and ask it “what !, what are you trying to tell me!” Charissa says then, it’s trying to tell you should run. 🙁 I wasn’t happy about her saying that much less thinking that. So I’ve asked her to take care of my horse while I just stay away. So the temptation is not there and everything can be handle in the proper manner. So Wednesday I left work and went straight home. When I got home I put my earphones in and went for a ride on my quad to check out the canal and listen to some music , just unwind. I ride about 30 minutes and was getting into the praise music I was meditating to and stopped the four wheeler hopped off started praising The Lord and when I looked down at my feet there laid a hawk feather. 🙂 I’m just in awe really. God is so incredible! I want to know exactly what he’s trying to tell me. I’m trying so hard to comprehend or understand. I know I’m just supposed to be still but it’s very challenging at times. I just needed to get all this off my chest.
    Thank you for what you do. May God Bless you and keep you……

    Reply
  15. AC
    AC says:

    I am curious about hawks because I too have had a hawk/horse experience that I was told was spiritual. I sadly lost a horse who was very dear to me recently, and as he was being led to the place where he was to be put down, my friend noticed a hawk that was perched in a tree. He was making noise as if he wanted us to notice him…it wasn’t difficult because he was huge. Once we noticed him, he flew out of the tree and flew directly over the horse on to his next destination. He almost touched the horse’s head, and the horse didn’t seem to be concerned. I am not sure what to interpret from this and would appreciate your input. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      What a beautiful story and I’m so sorry for your loss. There is a great chance that the hawk came to help your horse’s spirit to the other side. I’ve never seen something exactly like you are describing, but I have witnessed similar types of animal interactions around death that lead me to believe that some incarnate wild animals are sent to show us what is happening in the unseen world. The hawk is also likely to be a spirit animal for you that has come to help you through this grief and loss. You can call on their power when you are feeling low and simply ask for the hawk’s energetic support. Even closing your eyes and imagining the hawk is with you can help. I’m sending prayers in hopes you find all the support you need to make it through.

      Reply
      • AC
        AC says:

        Thank you so much for your kind words. I will certainly be thinking of the hawk as you suggest. As I believe that horses are very spiritual, what you said about the hawk helping his spirt could be true. Again, thank you.

        Reply
  16. PATRICE
    PATRICE says:

    On the way to a doctors visit my husband and I came across a red tailed hawk picking up a dead squirrel and flying away. My husband is concerned about the fact that death is also involved here. Can you explain the meaning of this?

    thank you……….

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Patrice, These encounters of seeing a dead animal bring some of, if not, the most powerful messages. This is not a negative message by any stretch. When I see a dead animal I take the message more seriously, but not ominously. It is one of those events that causes me to put everything else down to listen. The fact that the squirrel was carried off by the red-tail is a sign of the cycle of life, of what is old and past feeding what is living and new. In this case the busy, gathering energy of squirrel is passed on and is going to now be incorporated into the hawk which is symbolic of freedom and lifting off into the heavens. I’d recommend considering how this relates to some area of your life. What can you now stop being busy with and become lighter, more expansive in your perspective of? Many blessings to you.

      Reply
  17. Frieda Livesey
    Frieda Livesey says:

    Dear Stacey,
    Thank you for your inspired writing. I am an inspired writer as well. Red Tailed Hawk is my life spirit totem. I am aligning with her at the moment, like a sacred song, singing my soul. As I read the line in your writing: ‘The story told on her breast was that of enlightened beings that are born of the earth and then merged with the heavens’. The truth. It ran right through my inner being and cleared something very deep within my root, into a strong, secure, spirit connection between sky and earth energies. I understood this inside of me and aligned with it willingly. Thank you for your clear-minded vision and connection with this beautiful spirit bird presence that has taught my spirit so much about being the anchor of Love I am.

    Deepest Love, Frieda Livesey xoxo

    Reply
  18. Denise
    Denise says:

    Is the meaning the same for any feather from the red tail hawk as it is for the tail feathers? The feather I found I believe is a wing feather of a red tail hawk with black, grey, and white – striping on one side. It came into my life at a life changing moment. After 22 years with my husband we were getting separated . We had gone to several counselors over the previous 5 years and the marriage continued to deteriorate. I did most of the moving by myself because I didn’t want to expose my friends and family to any negative behavior from my husband. I loaded up all the boxes and unloaded myself. As I was unloading the last box I noticed this feather in the back of my jeep that traveled with me to my new “home”. I did not see it as I loaded the box but it was very clearly noticeable against the black rug mat as I picked up that last box. It affected me deeply and I didn’t know why. I kept it and later googled the meaning of feathers and could not believe what I found. I had never heard of this before. That was 7 months ago. We are now proceeding with a divorce. I am now through 9 weeks of a 10 week Rebuilding seminar and the symbol on the back of our workbook is a feather which brought my attention back to my feather. So I just want to know if a red tail hawk feather that is not from the tail has the same or different meaning.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Thank you for sharing your story Denise. The feathers of a red-tailed hawk carry the overall energy of the hawk like you read about in my post. The body part the feather comes from adds extra information as well as refines the message. The tail feathers emphasize the symbolism of the root chakra while a wing feather speaks of spreading your wings to fly and freedom. Does that help? Here’s a link to a great feather identification site: http://www.fws.gov/lab/featheratlas/idfeather.php. You might be able to get more information about your feather there. Blessings to you on your path.

      Reply
  19. Joleen
    Joleen says:

    Thank you for all your beautiful insight. I’ve been seeing hawks for several weeks and just today found out that I am 8 weeks pregnant. Today after I found out a red tailed hawk flew directly in front of my car from the ground and took flight. I’m not very happy about this pregnancy for many reasons, but it was obvious the hawk was there for a reason. Any insight?

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Joleen, It sounds like the hawks have come to help you through a trying time. Red-tailed hawks are associated with the root chakra which is about survival. I would recommend spending some time getting clear about what fears you have concerning your survival and then offering those fears up to the hawks to carry off for you. The hawk in front of your car was launching off the ground, showing your potential to no longer be “grounded” by this situation. Concerns over what the people around you think could be part of what is causing you to be weighed down. On the positive side, consider who in your life is providing support and what unplanned gifts are arriving in your life. Let me know if that helps and if there’s anything else I can do. Blessings to you, Stacey

      Reply
  20. Antonio
    Antonio says:

    Hello Stacey! Thank you so much for giving us this page of knowledge that clearly has an intimate knowledge of the hawk-eyed perspective. I’ve always had a deep connection with the red-tailed hawks, for they have come to me in waking life and many times in my dreams. I have been seeing them even more recently, almost one every other day and I had a dream about hawk feathers that I have been trying to understand. In this dream I was near this castle that had a moat/river in it, similar to the one from Legend of Zelda (if you’re familiar :P) and the water seemed to be too high for me and almost covered my head, but then the water drained and I found a secret chamber underground that had two hawk feathers on a square stone. I knew they were gifts for me.

    I keep a dream journal religiously and it reminded me of a dream I had many years ago of walking around after a hurricane had hit and trees were all askew. I was with my younger brothers, both 6 and 12 now, and we were picking up feathers. Then later in the dream I saw this hawk that was in a cage that was made in a fantastic cutout animation style by one of my favorite artists, Harry Everett Smith. I had the feeling that it was not time to release the hawk yet. I should state that I am an artist and animator and that the recent dream I had of the hawk feathers just connected me to that. Would love to get your perspective on it…because hawks are awesomeeee. Thank you.

    ^_^

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Antonio, What fun dreams! Castle can take on a number of meanings including a place within yourself of strength and fortitude. Saint Teresa of Avila saw the soul as a castle with many mansions. The moat could be a representation of the reinforcements, self-defense you’ve put around yourself. Being nearly drowned would speak of nearly being overcome by your own defenses. A draining away would be a letting go of those defenses. The secret chamber underground could be a symbol of a safe place inside your own inner strength where you find your gifts and freedom (shown by the feathers – think of “feathers in your cap”)… Hurricanes are often seen as symbols of stress and change. Birds molt their feathers once a year which is representative of shedding old identities and being reborn into the new. If the hurricane knocked the feathers off the birds that would show a forced loss of identity during a stressful time. The metaphor of the cage is fairly obvious, but given that it was animated shows that you may have merely been under the illusion of being caged. I would recommend spending some time considering how you release the need to defend yourself and well as how you are encountering your own freedom and talents. Well wishes on the path, Stacey

      Reply
      • Antonio
        Antonio says:

        Wow. Thank you for thank you for your insight. It was pretty dead on. Haha. I’m a Scorpio Rising, and although I am proud of that fact, my sun sign is Gemini and I know I should be lighter and free like a flowing wind. Tis the work. Haha.

        And the feathers were definitely wing feathers, just like the one third from the left. I have a hawk feather just like it that I found a few years ago that I use in my own healing and ritual practices. If it’s not too much, I do have one more hawk dream related question. What does it mean to get pooped on by a bird, specifically a hawk. I had a dream I was in this study/library and a hawk flew in and pooped white poop all over my body, to the point that I was literally covered and drenched in it. I should’ve been grossed out, but I was instead very happy about it.

        …So Yeah. XD

        Reply
        • Stacey Couch
          Stacey Couch says:

          From an app I have called “Way of Dreams” they say this – “Dreaming of defecation is a sign that something you are holding onto needs to be released.” Being as you were in a library I would say the “thing” is likely related to knowledge or some thought form.

          Reply
  21. Antonio
    Antonio says:

    I should also mention that the feathers were not tail feathers, but the brown and white spotted ones. Perhaps wing feathers? And that I’ve ordered your book online a while ago and I’m STILL waiting for it to arrive. >.<

    Reply
  22. Angelica
    Angelica says:

    I love this article. I am an Angelic Walkin. I was sitting by the window processing something that I felt was necessary to let go of. There was so much energy around this. Out of nowhere I saw this beautiful hawk land on this tree and stare at me. I tuned into the energy since I read energies and felt its beautiful energy. When it was complete it flew away. I knew in my heart it came to assist and send me an energy message. Then I read your article and it confirmed more. Very grateful

    Angel

    Reply
  23. Sheila
    Sheila says:

    I read some of the inspiring post from others concerning red tailed hawks and I would like to think they are in my life now for a good reason, but I recently bought a house where they are nesting somewhat close by. So in my case, I moved in to their territory..not knowing they were here. They fly above my house a lot. One perches on limbs in my yard. I scared one away from a squirrel once not knowing he was out there. I had a bird that built a nest under the porch overhang of my patio that the hawk took. With all of the birds, squirrels, chipmunks, etc in my yard..I don’t understand why he would take that bird that I enjoyed sitting and watching. Some say that a hawk won’t mess with my pets (large declawed cat and 2 shih tzus) but many say that they will. I’m worried every time I take my animals out for their business. Should I be worried? Are the hawks sending me good signs that I’m having problems seeing? Thanks for reading.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Red-tails typically take smaller prey than the pets you described and I haven’t heard of red-tails taking someone’s pet before. Regardless, understanding an animal’s message is all about your personal experience of the animal. If the red-tail is bringing up fear for you I would recommend looking into if that fear is a projection of something else. Hawks are predators. Is there someone in your life now or in your past that posed an open threat to you or your family? Do you distrust predatory nature in general? How about in yourself? Now may be the time to examine your feelings around being a victim or victimizing others. Consider spending some time evaluating your own boundaries, vigilance and self-esteem. How can you cultivate these qualities within you in a balanced way without shutting out the world or burning out watching for threats? See if you can move from the shadow of fear into the light of empowerment where trust in the rhythm of life can be yours. Blessings to you Sheila on the path.

      Reply
  24. Cynthia
    Cynthia says:

    On Jan. 1, I spent a day of fasting & praying to determine what I should do with my life. Several hours later, the message was clear – work with American Indians. As I was walking with my dog that same day, I noticed a huge, beautiful red tailed hawk staring at me and I felt that my answer was so correct! Within three -months, I had put a team of architects, engineers, funders, volunteers and builders together all interested in helping build projects on a rez, which is the home of Crazy Horse. He only wore feathers from red tail hawk.

    Upon my visit, I was challenged by people, including those I trusted. I do still have interested persons who want to help, but now I question whether this was the right direction.

    Could I have read more into these signs? Would love to hear your perspective. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Cynthia, This reminds me of a teaching from Brene Brown. She says there are two types of people: the people that believe that if it’s fast and easy that it was meant to be and the people that believe that something is only worthwhile if it takes effort and perseverance. She teaches that some things in life are hard and problematic and others are easy and effortless. This does not have any bearing on if the thing you are doing is worthwhile or not. You determine if your task is worthwhile. If it is worthwhile, pray for the grace of stamina and endurance to help you through. Sometimes too we have to readjust our plans. Pray for the inspiration you need to find the door that opens. The red-tail is simply showing that you have support, even if it is only in spirit form. Give Spirit the benefit of believing that support is enough. Sending prayers for your efforts. Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  25. Kate
    Kate says:

    Following a divorce, I rented a little townhouse near a friend, needing time to heal and rebuild my life. After a few months I still don’t know where I belong, should I stay here, go back to my country or origin, considering my age and how business had not been that great, the puzzle is complex.
    At the top of a huge pine tree next to my little yard, there is a red tails nest, these past few days, the babies are getting out and one fell right in my back yard as I was out in the yard with my dog. The young bird almost landed on us, just a couple feet away. An other one, landed just on the other side of the yard wall, we think that there are 2 more still in the nest.
    The whole neighborhood is on alert and discretely watching, as the parents are coming to feed the babies wherever they are roosting in this quiet neighborhood,
    What is their message,

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Kate, What a beautiful picture you paint of the young hawks being cared for wherever they land in your “quiet neighborhood.” I’d suggest that even if you fledge the nest early, that you will be safe wherever you land and Spirit will look after you until you are able to fly on your own to a place of your choosing. I’d spend some time considering your flight from the nest. Was it premature? How are you doing with sprouting your own wings to fly? Regardless of if you return to the nest (your home country) or stay where you’ve landed, this experience is soul-maturing process that will help you fly with your own vision later on. Cherish it for that and thank heavens for those winged messengers showing you that the process of fledging the nest is awkward. Rarely do the chicks fly off perfectly the first time. This takes practice even for hawks born with wings. Blessings to you.

      Reply
  26. Patricia
    Patricia says:

    So Amazing, for the first time, yesterday, I had a pair of hawks setting right over my head behind me in a short tree. As they graciously jumped and flew over my head, I could feel their wings and the expanse of them…I sensed they had been watching me.
    As I have thought about my spiritual journey, I thought of these two and was mindful but let it pass until this morning when another flew aside of my car and looked into my window. I had to look this up. I have known for a few years that I am being guided. I have a number 337 that has followed me and shows at times of distress. This angel number has taught me of my blessings and expectation of completion. So, when my guides sent me 3 hawks I am paying attention. My first thought was to “watch” and keep my eyes opened.
    Recently I have had questions regarding networking and my work and how its all going to unfold. The pair I saw first reminds me that two hawks will find each other, like minded and like spirits will find each other, so I will be mindful to secure this idea and foster growth by continuing to seek others that are moving in this direction.
    Yesterday was a day of reflecting on my blessings…today is a day of being watchful for my guides and the abundance they are sending…

    Reply
  27. Win
    Win says:

    Red tailed Hawks always show themselves to me. It really concerns my and I am wondering why. Can you give me some insights. Thanks

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Win, I would recommend contemplating these questions from my post: What are you wishing for right now? What are your dreams? Are you able to recognize the gifts being brought to you and the doors open before you? Another avenue to explore may be to take a look at where you may be afraid of others looking poorly upon you. It may be time to face those fears… without knowing more of your story I can’t give any more personalized advice than that. Feel free to reply with more details and I’ll see what else I come up with. Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  28. Jessie DeHority
    Jessie DeHority says:

    Oh my, will have to run out and buy your book!!! I have just recently posted some pictures of one of our red tail hawk babies, super close on my bbq, and patio. My Aunt commented how meaningful it was, and got me curious. I googled it and found this site!!! Pretty amazing and accurate!!! We have had the honor of watching these beautiful birds live, and raise their family for the couple of summers we have been in our new home. We are always in awh of them, will be in extra awh now!!! 🙂

    Reply
  29. Margaret Kornack
    Margaret Kornack says:

    The same red tailed hawk appeared twice today on the same fence post….I wanted to talk to it……”what do you need to tell me?” I have been in a severe depression over the loss of a friend (not death – he moved away and ended our friendship). I do hope the red tailed hawk is asking me to find my self esteem.
    Thank you.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Margaret, I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. I love the saying, “Sometimes our heart needs to be broken open for the light to be able to shine in.” The hawk may be there to help the light shine on you. Blessings to you on your healing journey.

      Reply
  30. linne@829design.com
    linne@829design.com says:

    I have always had a fondness and fascination with red tail hawks. I seem to have a keen ability to spot them while driving. And see them quite often just in daily activities in and around my town. Recently, I was on my patio enjoying the day, the birds who visit me (gold and house finches, hummingbirds) and I heard a hawk cry. I looked up to see two hawks circling around me not too high above. I thanked God for giving me such blessings. About a week later, today in fact as I post this, I found a red tail hawk feather in my back patio area. Well, my Siamese found it first. 🙂 I am just wondering what these encounters mean and am becoming more aware of perhaps there are messages I need to discover. I’m a single mom with two kids, starting life over again, building a business and have recently learned to surrender everything. I no longer worry about a thing. What could finding this feather mean? What does seeing red tails flying over you represent? Shalom and blessings to you!

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      I commend your courage in following your heart. Feathers, like any gift from nature, are tangible reminders of the blessings of the Divine. They show us that guidance is always with us, even when we think we can’t hear it. The feather could be a token of your accomplishment and/or a letter of encouragement from the heavens. Either way, the spirits are most definitely watching over you and showering you with blessings. You’ll be able to tap back into the memory of the visit from the hawks and hold the feather during times when the doubt threatens to creep back in. These are power points for you through which you can now access grace. Thank you for doing what you do in the world.

      Reply
  31. Jamye
    Jamye says:

    I am trying to find out the significance of a red tail hawk that was clasping a snake in its claw and flew across my path as I was driving down the road the other day.

    I tried reading all the previous posts and did not see one with this scenario.

    Thankyou for your comment.

    Reply
  32. Elizabeth
    Elizabeth says:

    dear Stacey,

    You are very knowledgeable, can you please help me understand, I met an elderly man at work, he said he believes in Reincarnation, I told them I’m going gambling this coming week, he said he used to go gambling all the time but not anymore, so I asked him if he had any good tips for winning, and he said he was going to bring me a Red Hawk feather, is The feather for good luck?

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Elizabeth, That is a lovely gift the man offered you of the red-tailed hawk feather. I do not specialize in good luck charms, so I don’t have any advice for you. I am interested in helping people become empowered and be able to change their lives from within. I believe we have way more power as our own agents of fortune and that we give our power away by believing something outside of ourselves will bring us joy or success. Alas, I still wish you the best of luck at the casino and I encourage you to believe in yourself more than any good luck charm. Much Love, Stacey

      Reply
  33. staci
    staci says:

    Thank you for your great post. I was weeding in my backyard when two hawks flew over me and dropped a torn in half rabbit that almost landed on my head. Any idea what this could mean. Or were they just fighting over it and I as just in the wrong place when they lost it.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Staci, Great question! And what a bizarre, unique experience that seems more than a mere coincidence to me! Rabbits are about going down the rabbit hole and moving into a time rich with imagination. It can be akin to a spiritual awakening, an opening of the mind’s eye to other realms. Do you possibly feel like you started to go down the rabbit hole and either got stuck or aborted the process halfway through? Was it a conflict with another person or worrying over what another person thought that caused your process to stop? Is half of you committed to your awakening and the other left behind? Do you feel split over this? I recommend reading my post on rabbit spirit animal to learn more: https://wildgratitude.com/rabbit-spirit-animal/. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  34. Rob Catlin
    Rob Catlin says:

    on my 53rd bday June 22 I found a red tailed hawk feather and after reading about the meaning of the red tailed hawk it brought me a positive sign that my life long inner turmoil will come to an end and bring the strength i have searched for. thank you for posting this article

    Reply
  35. Stephen Bernstein
    Stephen Bernstein says:

    Stacey, about 9 months ago I lost my job. A few months before that life-changing moment, I found a primary feather of a great horned owl, followed by two smaller ones. Each happened a couple weeks apart from one another, and each feather that I found decreased in size. I should mention that I have NEVER found a feather of this kind before. I did some research and realized that it was a sign that big changes were to take place. Soon after was when I parted ways with my employer after 18 years of service. Fast forward to the present … I take a nature walk with my wife today and I find a primary feather of a red-tailed hawk. Again, never found one of these before … but it was as if I was meant to find it. I did some research to identify the feather, and then came upon your site. But, the story isn’t quite finished. I go outside to have a catch with my son, and I’ll be darned, a red-tailed hawk flies out of our 80-foot tall tree in our side yard, and proceeds to soar down about 20 feet above my head, past me, and away into the distance. NEVER have I seen a red-tailed hawk in, or near, our yard in the 16 years we’ve lived in this house. I’ve got to believe that I am nearing a positive next stage on my journey. Your article has opened my eyes to the need to let down my defenses and trust in my abilities and core strengths, and that the hawk (spirit) will help guide me to my desired and deserved destination. Thank you for the inspiring and insightful article. And, please validate my statements if indeed you feel that they are true.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      I am absolutely impressed by your ability to shift your perspective, Stephen, from the troubles of the mundane world to the messages from the spirit world. That in and of itself is a positive direction. Then for you to be able to trust in your own gifts and talents is even more awesome. I see you are making the shift from having who you are and how you feel depend on the external world to depending on your inner world instead for solace and strength. This is a miraculous transition, one I love to watch people make, and I am so excited for you. Keep up with the fantastic work and keep me posted! Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  36. Star
    Star says:

    Dear Stacey,hoping you can help…months ago as I traveled I-80, a freak accident happen where a beautiful red-tailed was swept in strong wind and was hut into my rt. Side winshield. Being in the left lane an s truck beside I couldn’t stop to pull over,so I turned at the next exit,to turn around, but never did see the hawk,I know he hit hard and doubted the survival. Never I’ve forgot this poor hawk and wonder the meaning of such an accident. Please help me understand.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Star, When the end of an animal’s life collides with our own this is a very powerful and tough thing. The message is bigger and more impactful. I really encourage you to take the questions from this post and spend time in contemplation with them. That will help you uncover the message. You can also investigate where, if anywhere, you are currently colliding with your tribe/community and what you can do to mend that conflict. It may be time to forgive old hurts. It may also be a time to evaluate your feelings around connection and community and see where you might be jaded or fearful, and address those feelings. This post I wrote a number of years ago might also help: https://wildgratitude.com/message-on-into-summer/. Blessings to you on the path, Stacey

      Reply
  37. Greg
    Greg says:

    Stacey,

    I came across this website when searching for the meaning/symbolism of something that happened to me yesterday. I happened to glance out my window and saw a huge bird perched on the chimney of the house across from mine (looking it up online, I believe it was a red-tailed hawk). It looked like it was focused on something in my direction. As I approached the window, it began getting swarmed by what I believe were crows. They were making strange noises and dive-bombing the hawk, who remained perfectly still and focused in my direction. The hawk then soared off out of my viewing range. It reappeared a few minutes later, perched high on the same chimney. It continued to look in my direction, but this time when I stepped closer to the window, it looked to the right and back. It did this repeatedly and then flew away. Later that afternoon, I walked outside to get something out of my car (which was parked to the right of where the hawk was). I dropped my keys and, after bending down to pick them up, I discovered a dead baby bird under my car. Looking it up again online, it looked like a baby hawk. To me, this is more than just a random occurrence. I believe there is some kind of message trying to be conveyed here and was hoping you could provide some insight. Thank you in advance for your time.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Greg, When I look up “chimney” in my dream interpretation book, I find that it “pertains to emotional control.” The adult hawk could symbolize the adult, rational and responsible side of you revisiting emotional control over and over again. Cars often symbolize our motivation in life. Yours was parked. Picking the keys back up to your motivation, you realized the loss of your innocence (hawk chick). The innocence would be related to vision and/or your relationship to the tribe. That is how I would read the outer events as you described them. This could also be about raising a project (symbolized by the chick) up in the world and failing due to a lack of motivation. The emotional control could then be related to the feelings around the failure. All interesting angles to consider. Only you will know which, of any interpretations I’ve proposed, fit. Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  38. carmen renee
    carmen renee says:

    hello I love this posting about hawks I came to this looking for answers because yesterday it was the day of the full moon August 29 I was walking near the lake and a hawk swooped down from a tree and slowly circle my head at arms length while looking into my eyes I could have reached out and touched it it then went back to the tree and made some noise and came back down swooped around my head twice again looking at me again again I could have touched it and then it just took off making more noise was very amazing and another lady saw this we were just amazed by it just wondered if you have any insights about what that was all about thank you

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Carmen, I would recommend spending some time with the concept of the red-tailed hawk as a messenger. One way to interpret your encounter is to think of the hawk coming down and gathering up your messages for the heavens and carrying them up. Spend some time with your prayers and recognize what you are asking the Divine for. You may even want to do a meditation where you imagine going back to that moment with the hawk and then hand over your prayers as the hawk comes down and circles around you. Have fun and let your spirit soar! – Stacey

      Reply
  39. Prairieboy43
    Prairieboy43 says:

    Dear Stacey. Your Wildgratitude site is excellent. Keep up the good work.
    I have noticed many wild birds recently. I live in the country, and am always amused watching Ravens, Owls, Hawks, Falcons, Crows, Eagles, Herrons, Geese, Chickadees, etc.
    Lately I have been picking up Crow/Raven Feathers. It is almost like these birds are talking too me. Then In the past week I dreamt I was flying like a bird, with a complete Birds Eye View of Earth approx 1000′ above the surface, while Earth keeps turning. I was thinking of making a drawing of it (like Superman, LOL!). However today I came upon a dead Red Hawk on the road. It was crushed. I stopped and pulled the hawk off the road and collected 5 Red Feathers. Strange at how this is accelerating. Is there a meaning to this?
    Thank You
    PB43

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      When synchronicities and meaningful events speed up in our lives this is a sign that we are in the midst of a transformation. The faster and more frequent these events, the larger portion of ourselves that is in the process of transforming. To track what each sighting means I suggest practicing with a lot of mindfulness. When you see a bird, stop whatever else you are thinking about (if at all possible) and rewind. What were you contemplating or thinking about just as the animal appeared? You can also do a reverse investigation and at the end of the day sit with the encounter(s) you had and think back on the day or the moment to what questions or issues you had in your mind. Did you wake up with anxiety about something? Were you dealing with a conflict during the day? Did a loved one come to mind? Whatever prayer you were with (all thoughts are prayers) during the time of seeing these birds is the clue to the message they are/were bringing. Good luck!

      Reply
  40. Stephanie cobb
    Stephanie cobb says:

    We were once lucky enough to have 3 hawks somewhat reside in our backyard. They lived across the street, but would come over daily. We had lost a tree in the middle if our backyard. However, it was the tree I always tied my dog to when I would garden. So I had about 20 feet of the trunk left behind and put a birdhouse 5 feet from the top. It only got used 1 year because the Hawks decided the tree was a good perch to teach their baby to hunt! They would place baby up there every day, then fly to the nearby woods and keep guard. The most “exciting” (shocking) experience was the day that I was doing dishes in the kitchen sink and the daddy hawk swooped down across the window (less than 2 feet from my face!) to catch it’s prey as a demonstration of hunting skills. Needless to say, I had to stop the bird feeders for a bit (just couldn’t provide a birdie buffet). They spent months at our house, so close that we could memorize the markings on all 3. It was the most amazing experience to witness the raising of a baby hawk. 🙂

    Reply
  41. Donnalee
    Donnalee says:

    Good Morning, stumbled upon your website while looking for the meaning of seeing a red-tailed hawk. Which I did! First one I have seen since moving to my current home. Have been dealing with ” emotions” due to certain family members.
    If I am add, prior to moving I lived in Virgina and for the first 7 years I have pleasure of a single red-tailed hawk visit me every October and stay through winter, then on the third year he brought his mate, on the fourth year they brought their off spring. My husband was in the Coast Guard and was out to see around the time they started coming.
    Was there a reason for their visit and Now ?

    Thanks for listening, appreciate any information.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Donnalee, For insights into the meaning of their visits then, I would look at the associations with winter which, briefly, are solitude, scarcity, contemplation and prayer. Looking at “North” in my post on the Medicine Wheel will help too. Pairing those associations with the meaning of red-tailed hawk outlined in this article and you’ll find more answers. For now, I would most definitely say you’re on the right track in seeing the connection between your emotions around your family members and the appearance of the red-tail. Red-tailed hawks help us come into acceptance of the tribe we’ve been given, while remaining rooted in the fact that many layers of relationship are available and we have the chance to transcend the gravity of the current layer and come into a more uplifted, loving, and detached place.

      Reply
  42. Remembering Graccia the Red-tailed Hawk from Gracious Wild
    Remembering Graccia the Red-tailed Hawk from Gracious Wild says:

    […] Reflecting on this 10th anniversary of Graccia’s passing, it is absolutely amazing to me how many people Graccia’s spirit has put me in touch with. To date, my article about Red-tailed Hawk Spirit Animal that features Graccia has over 80 comments from people around the world that have had their own encounters with red-tails. I feel the tangible results of her support in this very visible and magical way.[…]

    Reply
  43. Oarlocks
    Oarlocks says:

    OK, since these stories are incredible, I’ll add mine…First of all, thank you for this forum — sometimes you need the right audience, you know? So, last year on an organized canoe trip we pulled animal totems from a deck on the last day. Mine was an upside down hawk, and the upside down interpretation was that I had stuck energy. So, fast-forward to this past weekend, where I was at a yoga training for trauma-informed yoga and I saw a red-tailed hawk flying over me on the way home. I wondered if it was a sign because I had been clearing so many different feelings and experiences in a very short period during this training. The day after the training, a feather appeared on my walk in front of my house. I looked up the feather and decided it was a red-tailed hawk (I had also wondered if it was a peregrine, since both are in our neighborhood). I know this is not a coincidence because the timing is so clear and your blog addresses exactly what I had to clear — this feeling of not being part of a community, not ever belonging, etc. — all first chakra stuff. Pretty powerful and I look forward to seeing how my path unfolds from here. I just keep letting it unfold and have faith.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Beautiful story! I’m so glad you took this opportunity to share how synchronicities with red-tails have added depth and meaning to your own life. In Gratitude, Stacey

      Reply
  44. Tim
    Tim says:

    Recently i was making an early morning drive to work out of state to a small town in Wyoming during the drive i was able to see and observe more than twenty red tail hawks during a three hour period and over a 150 mile area .
    It seemed as if they were waiting for my presence in their territory and were presenting themselves to my observance. within ten minutes of my arrival to my destination i learned that my younger brother had passed away during these hours of that same morning.
    I quickly returned by the same route and witnessed on my return journey even an increase in the number of hawks
    during my drive back home to see my brother and be with my family during this tragic and sudden loss.
    I felt a peace and comfort that is hard to describe during this eight hour journey but am not sure of its meaning
    any insight would greatly help me to accept and grieve this terrible and sudden loss of my brother best friend and
    companion in my life and help me fill this vast empty place that is now in my life
    With love and sincerity Tim Helmick

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Tim, I am so very, very sorry to hear of the loss of your beloved brother. The tribe of the red-tailed hawks most certainly came to lend you much needed support on that day and beyond. That peace and comfort you can’t find the words for is a Divine gift from the hawks that is yours whenever you need it. To put words and/or rational meaning to such a profound visitation would, I fear, downplay the magnitude of the support and love you were given. I guess that there are layers upon layers of meaning, some that are immediately available in feeling and words, other meanings that won’t reveal themselves for years. I say rather than close down the meaning into a single reason, open up to the infinite possibility of what has been revealed to you and allow the experience to travel with you throughout this process. My heartfelt blessings as you navigate this especially trying time, Stacey

      Reply
  45. D. Martin
    D. Martin says:

    My first husband and I were victims of a home invasion – he was killed instantly and I survived (with some emotional scars). I noticed a hawk (the scream of it’s call) at his burial, and then later one flew down into my windshield a few weeks later, and again later, one was perched on the stop sign when I returned to work from lunch. This was plain freaky – I had commented on this to a friend who was with me when we saw the hawk on the stop sign, needless to say she was also freaked. Then later at his grave site there was a hawk riding the wind while I planted flowers at his stone . . . this hawk (or a hawk – not sure if same) was EVERYWHERE (including our home and the home that followed). Even my sister-in-law commented on it. It is now 16 years later, I am remarried with children and over the years a hawk has made its presence known in very direct ways. Now my children and second husband have been invited into the hawk-circle. We have a hawk at our new home that will roost on a fence post, or the old church bell in our garden. He was sitting on our house watching the window installers a couple weeks ago, he’s a fairly constant presence now and I’m glad to find your site, because the hawk has comforted me over the years because he was there when I needed solace and I thought I was nuts because I found hope in a bird of prey – thank you for sharing.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      This is one of those stories that takes my breath away, and you, my dear, are not nuts. You are a brave soul with a keen eye and sharp intuition that allows you the opportunity to see grace in the everyday. Hope in the face of hardship is a stunning thing. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  46. livvy
    livvy says:

    I am going through depression and anxiety, have had an endometrial ablation in April, Kidney surgery in September and three weeks later a total hysterectomy. I was listening to Ephemeral by Bassnectar driving home from the doctor yesterday. I was having thoughts of not having the will to live anymore when I looked in the sky and saw a beautiful bird. I pulled into the end of my driveway, parked my car and jumped out. The Red Tail Hawk had stopped in the top of a dead tree like it was waiting for me to get out. Then it took off, but was just floating in the wind above me, it took off to the right and then shot back over the the left of me into the sun. It was an amazing experience. We have a strong population in our rural community and I seem to catch one flying in times when I feel low. I keep telling myself they are there to help me get through my bad times. I love them so much.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      How glad it makes my heart to hear that the winged ones are bringing you such solace and comfort. Lean into their company. They are here for you beckoning you to fly above the sadness and find the joy that is waiting for you. They love you too.

      Reply
  47. mildred
    mildred says:

    i live in a med city. i am disabled and struggle with all that goes with my disability. being sick and in pain all of the time is very isolating. my children are grown. so it’s just my husband, my self, my pug, and a wonderful stray mutt. the stray mutt is wonderful, beautiful, athletic, and quite the hunter. he is always catching birds, squirrels, lizards, and even bugs. i promise we feed our animals well. my pug is my constant friend and companion of about 12 years. she has always been a sweet gentle spirit. i dob’t know what i’ll do when she dies.
    anyways, one sunday i was sitting in the living room when my ferocious little hunter mutt went off. he was furiously hurling himself st the patio window. i heard something large hit the back glass and saw the beautiful wingtip. we discipline our dogs with spray bottles of water. so i got buddy away from the window. there was this large beautiful bird ready for battle. i could tell that one wing was broken and he was missing a toe. this didn’t affect his attitude though. he was fearless. once i calmed the dogs i called animal control. i already knew not to go out on my patio with a wounded raptor. i still wanted to help him if i could. so i walked to the glass and he actually seemed to calm down so i stood there and talked to him in my most calming voice. to my surprise, it seemed that he was listening. he calmed down and perched on a saw horse my husband had left on the patio. i told him he was so beautiful, absolutely magnificent and even with a broken wing he preened himself.
    animal control showed up quickly for a sunday afternoon. the man who came told me it was a red tailed hawk. he was amazing. so gentle with the hawk. he very quickly and gently covered the bird and put it in a carrier. the amazing thing is that buddy stayed quiet. they kept the hawk over night in the shelter.
    i called the zoo the next day and actually got to speak to the vet. she assured me that he was fiesty and that except for a broken wing he would recover in a few days.
    i don’t know what the message was? i’ve worked as a nurse, and as an hiv outreach educator and tester. i helped a few people. i felt so guilty when i had to quit because of health reasons. it felt like i was abandoning people who needed me. it felt good to help that hawk.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Mildred, Thank you for helping that hawk and for telling your story. I am so sorry to hear of your feelings of isolation and struggle with pain. It is good that you have the company of your husband and your dogs. Sometimes our tribes contain more animal companions than humans and that’s okay. I feel the company of our pets is just as valuable a source of support as that of our human family and friends. One of the messages of the hawk may be that despite a broken body you still have a strong spirit, and he came to remind you of that. I’m sure that there is a depth of meaning in your encounter with that hawk on your porch that will unfold in the years to come. What a gift. Sending blessings your way, Stacey

      Reply
  48. Hans Gruber
    Hans Gruber says:

    My wife noticed roughly one week ago that a red-tailed hawk has been lurking about our neighborhood. According to her, he has often perched himself on one of the utility wires located on the southern edge of our property (we have a 1/3 of an acre parcel of land). He has been there at times when she has been in our kitchen cooking, and she notices this when she looks southward out of our dining area. As we don’t have human children, we do have 2 dogs; several times, the boys went bananas, but out of fear that the hawk’s talons are razor sharp, did not allow them outside.

    Periodically, he would also perch on the lower branch of a birch tree located in one of adjacent neighbor’s lot, just west of us, and just out of reach of the dogs — again, driving them nuts.

    This morning, my wife looked southward, seeing the hawk perched again, on the utility line. She got our her cell phone to take a picture, raised up the blinds, and starting shooting photos. I could swear that he *posed* for her, turning his head left and right, with his wings slightly opened, partially showing his breastplate area. When I came up to the window to take a photo myself, he flew away.

    Now…taking into account of the significance of what the hawk means in the spirit world, I am trying to figure out (1) why he is here, (2) who is he here for, (3) what does he want?

    I don’t know of anything going on, other than her father having slowly failing health issues (left side is deteriorating; loss of muscle and bone mass unexplicitly for no apparent reason), and for the past several months, I have been having localized headaches in a rift on top of my head (had a CT scan yesterday). Interestingly enough, both her father and I have had health issues approx. around the same time as the hawk supposedly showed up.

    Honestly, I don’t think that the hawk has anything to do with me; however, I do think, if at all, that he is there for my wife regarding her father.

    Nonetheless, I’d like to get some form of idea. Post here, or email works fine with me.

    hans

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Hans, Thank you for sharing your story with such detail. It definitely sounds like the hawk is there working to get your attention. I’m glad that you’ve had the opportunity to watch him. All of your questions are very good questions and very reasonable. I’m going to start with #2 – who is he here for? – I do not believe that messages from animals can be pinpointed to one person only. Often visits from animal messengers carry meaning for many people in just the same way that none of us can actually “own” a spirit animal. As far as question #3 goes – what does he want? – I would say that the hawk may or may not know for what reason he feels compelled to make contact with you, but the overall purpose of these divinely coordinated visits is to cause you to see the sacred in the everyday and inquire deeper into the meaning of life. And then question #1 – why is he here? – There are as many answers to that question as stars in the sky, but you need to find what works for you. These messages are layered and an answer you find today may not suffice tomorrow. The hawk could be there as consolation for your wife offering support during this difficult time. The hawk could be there to offer you a distraction from your headaches. Both are likely true. Do I think the hawk is an omen of something to come? Not necessarily, but looking back in a year you may see how it was. I know my answers are vague, but I am trying to encourage you to expand your perception. We are all connected. All of this has meaning for everyone. Finding a discrete answer would cause you to stop paying attention to the hawk and that would be a loss. Enjoy the company and see what unfolds in divine timing. Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  49. Kris B
    Kris B says:

    Just out of curiosity more than anything else. I’ve had a hawk that I feel like has followed me. I saw him awhile before I was payed off in the oil field. Now I’ve seen one sitting on the telephone pole on the way to our house as well as while driving down the road. A few minutes ago a hawk flew directly in front of me while driving down tge road. Like across the road right in front of me and not to far off the ground. I’m confused as to what it means if anything. Most times they are sitting on fence posts whole I’m driving or telephone poles. And look to be watching me as I drive by. Hope you answer for me. It would be a blessing.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Kris, The change from seeing the hawks as stationary to seeing them active, may indicate a shift from a passive approach to an active approach. This could mean that either you are taking on a more active role in your community (seeing as red-tails are about tribe) or this could mean that the hawk spirit animals are taking a more active role in helping your on a spiritual level. Either way, it seems the relationship and the message is most definitely shifting. I encourage you to look at the qualities of red-tailed hawk and see how your life is transforming in those areas. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  50. J.J.
    J.J. says:

    I am about to divorce my husband of 32 years and establish a new home for myself and our son who will be with me part-time. To say I am terrified is an understatement, yet this has been a very long time in coming. On the long drive home from PA where I visited my sister in her new home, I was amazed to see 20 or 30 red tailed hawks, one every few hundred feet or so. They are my power spirit animal and I have only seen one, maybe two, at one time. I felt so blessed when I saw them and was so grateful to find your website and to learn that my prayers are about to be answered and that, in the end, I will know that I made the right decision. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and insight!

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello J.J. – You are welcome. I never cease to be amazed at how the animals continue to show up for us in our hour of most need. I’m so glad the hawks are there for you. May all the courage and fortitude you need during this trying time be yours. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  51. Carole
    Carole says:

    Thank you so much for your very insightful, connected and profound messages about the Red-tails. While I have seen them before from a distance, I have had two recent sightings in close proximity, today being one of them. It was an amazing experience and thankfully, I found your website and interpretations. I was returning from an appointment with a job counselor after trying for months without success to get a job. Every time I would get some momentum going in my job search, I’d get whacked with a major upset–my mother died recently, my close friend died of breast cancer a few months earlier, and my husband ran off with a young woman half his age a few months before that, along with several other major catastrophes in my life. Try as I might, a job has not materialized and now my money has dwindled down to close to nothing and my credit cards all at their limits. Mind you, I am an experienced professional with great credentials and contacts who you would think could jump into a new job in a heartbeat. Here’s the problem. I’m trying to change directions in my career path from being the corporate money maker to someone who is using my skills as a writer and editor to go in a direction that is true to my heart and follows my spirit path. Because money is tight, I have been targeting jobs that are a closer match to my previous experience. But, I really don’t want to go in that direction anymore. I have declared out loud that I am surrendering to spirit, yet continue to apply for jobs that represent my past, which is actually a fear response. The job counselor basically told me to go out and pound the pavement harder to get results. While i know I can do more, I felt this was not nearly the whole picture and that if I focus on my vision and take actions from there, tapping into spirit for guidance, finding a job will be much easier than she’s presenting it. Then, at the train station on my way home, I saw a giant Red-tailed Hawk land on a branch to survey its surroundings for about 15 minutes just 50 feet away from me. That was my sign and your messages confirmed this for me. Oh yea, and as an Aries, my American Indian Zodiac sign is Red-tailed Hawk and today the moon is in Aries. Quadruple confirmation. Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom. Very helpful. I know what to do now.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Carole, Your self awareness and candor is a teaching for us all. I’m glad to hear that the hawks are watching over you and offering you much needed support. I admire your courage and fortitude in the face of adversity. To have these gifts (awareness, courage, fortitude) carry you through this challenging time shows how we need more than money and success to survive. Blessings to You, Stacey

      Reply
  52. Renee Thomas
    Renee Thomas says:

    Dear Stacey,

    I just finished reading your post (after hearing the screeching from one of 3 red tailed hawks that live in my backyard). I have been floundering in Raleigh NC 4 11 years now. I am a poet, mom (my children are grown so im an empty nester right now) wife and fellow seeker of the way. I am a May 2nd baby so i connect with the earth and tangible things as second nature..ive been accused of loving to hard, carring grudges, never letting go….long story short..ive literally come to the end of myself down here. This is a rambling post but there are no coincidences in life. Im convinced. Three red tailed hawks? I think they are a family. Always showing up when im at wits end! Thank you for your work. Your gracious kind spirit which comes through as you answer each post. I truly pray for my family and this world, that more kind people will step up and make themselves known to the world. One person at a time. Thank you again for allowing me to see the path towards self awareness and improvement as i strive daily to be a better individual for humanity’s sake.

    In light and love,

    Renee Thomas

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      You are so welcome Renee. I can tell in the way you write that you are a poet. Keep writing and keep believing. You too are making the world a better place. Much Love, Stacey

      Reply
  53. Debbie Sarich
    Debbie Sarich says:

    My father passed away last night. This morning as I drove up a winding road, a red-tailed hawk flew in front of my windshield and lead me up the road for about 100 yards then took off to my right. As I researched on line as to what type of hawk this was, I came upon your page. Can you help further explain what this means?

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Debbie, I am sorry to hear about your loss and the newness of it must be a shock. Often animals come to console us quickly after a loved one’s passing. For me, a red-tailed hawk came at the time of my uncle’s death. He loved red-tailed hawks. There are many layers of meaning to such encounters. The spirit world is acknowledging the crossing, our loved ones are sending us comfort, the animals are showing their support, and a personal message is in there too. Read through this post again and see which part really resonates with you in regards to your relationship with your father. How are you both being set free in this transition? Many Blessings to you during this trying time, Stacey

      Reply
  54. Deb
    Deb says:

    Today we were driving on the highway and I have sent many messages out daily to the spiritual world. I looked up and saw a red tail eagle flying above the vehicle. I was amazed and was wondering what kind of message was being sent to me.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Deb, That may be the message in and of itself, that the spirit world is reaching out to you and now is the time to start listening. So often we get caught up in what we want and in organizing carefully stated requests of the Divine that we forget to listen for the answer. Listening takes patience and takes acceptance. Sometimes the answer isn’t what we want to hear. Are you having a hard time waiting for the answer? Are you not hearing the answer you want? If either of these is true, I recommend practicing with patience and/or acceptance rather than focusing on the goal of receiving guidance. The guidance likely is to wait and release anyway. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  55. Karyn
    Karyn says:

    Dear Stacey

    I was outside in my garden this morning, going through my morning ritual of greeting grandfather sun, the seven directions prayer, and talking with my beloved husband who died suddenly last year. I have been noticing that there is often a magnificent red tail-tailed hawk sitting in the branches of a tree quite close to me. I used to really dislike birds of prey, as something that brings me a great deal of joy is watching and listening to the birds as they feed at the bird feeder, and I feel very protective of them. Interestingly, I have never once seen him go after any of the birds; he just seems to sit there calmly, and I like to believe that he is watching over me. Whatever his presence means, I have found myself comforted by him. Shortly after my husband died, an exotic bright orange bird showed up at my window. I had never seen anything like it before, and I intuitively sensed that this magnificent little bird was connected with his passing, as was a beautiful orange azalea flower. We planted this plant when we moved into our home many years ago and it had never once produced any flowers until that day his beautiful spirit left his body. When I read about the color orange, it described his personality perfectly. I found you by googling the symbolic significance of red-tailed hawks and have thoroughly enjoyed reading everyone’s stories and your kind and loving responses. With love and blessings to you.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Karyn, What beautiful synchronicities. I love your ability as a storyteller. It is fun too to put a face to your name and have you here with us. It does not surprise me that the red-tailed hawk hasn’t bothered your bird feeder. Small birds aren’t at the top of their menu as they don’t have a great agility and maneuverability for hunting them. They will take small birds on occasion, but not when other easier prey such as rodents are available. All that aside, it sounds like your backyard is filled with miracles connecting you with your husband. This confirms what shamanic teachings say, that we don’t disappear when we die, we simply change form. I look forward to staying in touch and hearing more as your journey continues. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  56. Karyn
    Karyn says:

    I just posted my comment and then saw, to my alarm, that a picture of me appeared! I recently signed up for an online course and set up this photo. However, not being the slightest bit technologically competent I had no idea it would show up in other places. Reading that “it’s time to become the observer and see things from a mystical perspective. This isn’t about being better than your tribe mates, but about seeing things away from your ties to worry about what others will think of you” I had to smile!

    Reply
  57. Rosa
    Rosa says:

    Stacey, I just ordered your book and very excited to read more about the Red Tail Hawk. After my husband and I moved to Middle TN from SC little over a year ago, I began seeing Red Tail Hawks often, then it became on a regular basis. I’d see them in trees, fence posts and even on the ground. One sighting my husband and I were driving in the car and there was a Red Tail Hawk flying along side the car in fact if my husband would have reached his hand out the window I do believe he would have been able to actually touch the tail of this hawk. After moving back here to SC I still see them very often, I actually saw three within a 1/4 of a mile while we were traveling.
    While still living in TN I was driving and a Black Tail Hawk with a snake in it’s claw flew directly in front of my car making sure I saw it. I know that there is a message here, I am not sure what it meant, could you please share your thoughts?
    I am and have always been a very spiritual person and am seeking more insight, my Great, Great, Great Grandfather was full blooded Native American and I have been blessed through my Grandmother to have learned some of the ways…

    Thank you for your time
    Rosa

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Rosa, It sounds like you’ve been in the company of hawks for awhile now and that you’ve had a lot of opportunity to appreciate how beautiful they are. Lucky you! I double-checked and we do not have a black tailed hawk here in the United States. The hawk you may be speaking of could either be a zone-tailed hawk or a common black hawk, but both species are not found in TN. The common black hawk is very rare (https://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/common-black-hawk), and here is information about the zone-tailed hawk which is only found in the southwest (https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Zone-tailed_Hawk/id). So what does that mean? You could have easily seen a dark morph immature red-tailed hawk that had a very dark brown tail or a dark morph adult with a very dark red tail. Always when the identification of an animal is uncertain, I go to the overall qualities of the group (in this case hawks) and gather information from there. Vision and soaring high come in. Plus you didn’t know the species of the snake either, so you can look at the general characteristics of snake spirit animal. I find it interesting that both were black. The color black relates to the great mystery, the void, and potential. Your vision may have been capturing up the potential for transformation in your life. The message itself may still be moving through from the void, thus the reason for a yet uncertain answer. I look forward to hearing what you think of Gracious Wild and to staying in touch. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  58. Lori Evers-Miller
    Lori Evers-Miller says:

    I love this article! I was searching trying to find out if the red tailed hawk was my spirit animal. I have such a connection with them and I don’t know how to explain it. I live in Southern Illinois and see them a lot. Every time I see one, I am thankful and know its a good omen, especially when they are still and perched somewhere. Not long ago, a co worker and I were standing outside where we work, chatting, and it looked like it started snowing. We looked up and there above my head on a lamppost was a red tailed hawk eating a baby robin. The ‘snow’ we were seeing was the feathers of the baby robin. My co worker was ‘oh! That poor baby’ And I replied, ‘The hawk has to eat too.’ I had never seen one in town before and of all the places she could’ve chosen to eat, the place she chose was right above me, just a few feet away. Why would a wild animal be so close to two people? I like to think she chose that place because she knew she would be safe by me.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      What a lovely story Lori. It is so amazing how the animals are willing to offer us a window into their world. It truly is a gift. I am grateful that you are the beneficiary of such a gift and that you are able to take it in in all its beauty. Blessings to you, Stacey

      Reply
  59. Silvertip
    Silvertip says:

    Hello, In the past few years I have observed many animal signs. When I see an unusual animal sign, I take it as a sign for me and try to learn. I became over zealous in that I was looking for them constantly. In February I went to the woods where the red tails nest to look for hawk feathers. I didn’t find any feathers in the woods but I walked back through broom sage a direction I don’t normally take. I walked up on a slaughtered Red Hawk. One foot, one wing and the head was left. This really upset me and I took it as a sign to quit looking for animal signs and just let them happen. I did quit too completely. I took some sage and tobacco to where the hawk died and sat down in a funk. Then yesterday a Red Hawk flew low over me carrying a snake. I didn’t even think about any meaning. Then today a Red hawk flew right over me even lower carrying a snake. Only then did it dawn on me that the red hawk might be trying to tell me something. Is it eliminating evil in myself and the world? The animal signs I have seen are always correct!

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Silvertip, What an interesting story you share, and, to be honest, one that is not too unfamiliar to me. Sometimes we can get obsessive compulsive with finding meaning in everything. I know I’ve been there. Taking a break, like you did, and just appreciating the beauty for the beauty and moving away from it all having to be a message for you, was a clever move. There is something deeper and richer that moves into that space we create. After that break all messages have 1,000,000 meanings and all are beautiful as they are. All messages are meant specifically for us and all are completely impersonal. Both are true. It sounds like the hawk was showing how you hold your own transformation (snake) in your hands in regard to this. When we look at the snake as being temptation (evil), it could be having the temptation to obsess in hand too. Blessings to you for listening to the animals in whatever capacity calls you and for following your inner compass. Sincerely, Stacey

      Reply
  60. Spicecow
    Spicecow says:

    Thank you for your information and inspiring insight! I am newly spiritually awakening and learning and experiencing much growth (and frustrating setbacks too). For 6-7 months I have been reflecting about spirit animals and asking for help in revealing any animal guides. I have a strong affinity for animals but had not felt a strong sense of type of spirit animal presence. 2 nights ago I was scrolling through herbology information and reading up on sage, thinking to add some to my garden. I explored types of sage and got distracted looking at sage uses for smudging, Native American customs and was wondering about types of feathers used. As I was reading, I thought about a red tail hawk nesting in our woods who circled over my head a few weeks ago while I was mowing. When I stopped the mower to pick up branches near the meadow and creek on the lower part of our farm, the hawk circled lower and screeched multiple times. I also thought about the pair of Eagles in our hay field last fall that were feeding on a groundhog that was mowed over. I couldnt find information about types of feathers used for smudging and gave up. The next morning along our lane was a dead red tail hawk. He was young – maybe last year’s hatch and still had amber eyes with no red on the tail yet. One of his talons was burned off half up his leg. He was laying below the power lines next to a pole. It was distressing to see but I also felt this might be a sign. I took some of his feathers, gave thanks for his sacrifice and contact and returned him to the earth in a nice spot on our farm. I still have mixed feelings. Should I have kept the feathers? Am I reading too much into this? I would like to know your thoughts on this circumstance.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Greetings, It is important to remember that the natural world and spirit world can teach us as much as books, workshops and gurus. Your story is a lovely example of how we can be shown many things when we stop to watch. There is no right or wrong thing to do when you find the remains of an animal, especially when you have the respect to stop and honor its passing. It is less important whether you took a feather or not and more critical that you are incorporating the encounter into your spiritual awareness. The spiritual path is about taking less stock in the physical and placing more emphasis on the unseen. In learning to trust what we gather in the unseen realms, we learn to rely on the power of our soul. The fact the hawk was electrocuted points to a jolt of power. This power could be what the ego used for control, thus causing your spirit to get zapped. And/or it could relate to a surge of spiritual power that knocked you off your feet. I’m sure the message will continue to unfold over time. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  61. jen beckler
    jen beckler says:

    There has been one present everyday since my dad passed..it will land on my son’s playset, and leaves it’s feathers, for my son to find, I love that you have written insight for us..thank you for helping me understand the powerful message.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      What a lovely comfort for you during this time. I am honored to be able to contribute in small part to the unfolding of spiritual support for you. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  62. Susan H
    Susan H says:

    About a month ago one baby bird was found at my porch in hot Las Vegas, NV. It had very few feathers but I could tell it was a hawk by its claws. To make a long story short, he didn’t survive this heat. Within two weeks 4 baby hawks died on my tiny property. They ranged from fledging stage to almost fully feathered. I believe Mom made her nest somewhere on my house. One little baby did survive. I leave a big bowl if water on my porch for it to ensure he’s hydrated in this 110 degree weather. It’s been almost a month now and I see him everyday in the afternoon . I do keep my distance but he does allow us to take pictures of him. He’s a fully feathered beautiful red tail hawk. It means a lot to me that I was able to help one little baby survive. I wish I could upload a picture to share with you.

    Reply
  63. Shannon
    Shannon says:

    A few years ago a medium told me that my father (who has passed) would bring me birds. That year I had a robin nest on my window sill and was overjoyed as i watched the baby grow and was blessed to watch it’s flight leaving the nest.

    The following year I again had a robin nest in a different location. This yr I was disappointed as I didn’t have one.

    Until 3 weeks ago when we started finding ‘leftovers’ on our lawn. Then they made themselves known. I have 2 large beautiful red-tails living in my front tree. I live in the city and heard that this is very uncommon. They’ve come into my backyard numerous times and glide down almost close enough for me to touch. I have taken many pics because when they do perch low, they allow me to walk right up to them with zero fear and just stare at me. I feel blessed as I hear and see them every day. I can’t help but feel they are a gift from beyond and hope they are bringing positive messages. I have been drawn to falconry since I was a small child and wonder if this animal is my totem…

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Shannon, What a wonderful gift from both the robins and the hawks! Your affinity for hawks actually shows that the hawk is more likely to be your spirit animal. Please copy and paste this link to watch a video that explains why this is: https://youtu.be/R1od71xWavk. Remember too that we all have more than one spirit animal. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  64. Carolin
    Carolin says:

    I love the posts and the heart-felt replies…I left my partner of ten years two months ago and this last week has been filled with loving emotional dreams and a sensation of feeling his presence. Concurrent with this is the active amazing beauty of two very talkative Hawks who constantly fly over my back deck sitting spot, between the oak and the sycamore and chat amongst themselves, especially when I’m out in the yard. I always viewed my partner as a ‘hawk’ and we would laugh about the ‘free bird’ that he is. Every time in my relationship with him, whenever I saw a hawk, it felt like him and I was always captivated by their presence. I haven’t had Hawks in my backyard for several years and their presence is giving me pause as to what message and guidance I should be hearing. Along with this have been the finding of so many feathers, almost every day, and I want to hear and I wish that I could hear and my heart is so confused that I am not hearing. I want to reach to him but he hasn’t for me and I don’t want to question my initial decision to leave. It’s so complicated but I think this beautiful pair of Hawks are here for a reason. I intention to listen until I know.❤️

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Carolin, It sounds to me like you are already heading the call of the hawks by looking inward and re-evaluating where you are. Oftentimes when I receive messages like this I wonder if it means I should contact the person I’m reminded of. I do try it out to see what comes of it and on the pathway of reaching out and exploring that route and maybe talking to the person I find the REAL insights within. The true insights are about shifts in beliefs and patterns within myself that are so very valuable. Either way, it sounds like your heart is being opened by these gorgeous beasts which is the true opportunity here regardless of the outcome. Many blessings to you and thank you for sharing your story, Stacey

      Reply
  65. Vito Tomanelli
    Vito Tomanelli says:

    Wow, I am in awe!! I have been connected to my Higher Power by way of Saint Kateri’s love for me. I have never been overly religious, and lots of things that recently happened were quite delusional on my part.
    Without getting into the many things that recently occurred, I will tell one story of how I know for sure that there is a “beyond”. Saturday, that recently past, while receiving so many signs and messages and while being fixated in a moment of great and overwhelming gratitude, I was thanking St. Kateri for all the wonderful signs she presented with in the recent weeks. I suddenly heard a thud on the floor as I saw in the corner of my eye something fall to the ground at the back door of my car where I was slowly driving ( and literally ) thanking out loud this Saint, this wonderful and loving woman. At that sound I watched a Redtail Hawk fly up higher into another tree. I put my car in reverse and observed a half eaten squerrel had been dropped by this great bird at that moment of gratitude specifically about “signs”.
    Please contact me: . I have so much more to discuss with those interested in my connection to the spirit world.
    I am living each day in awe!!????

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      I will email you Vito and we can talk further! That’s wonderful to hear that you’re surrounded by so many blessings and that you’re able to rest in gratitude about it all. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  66. Vito Tomanelli
    Vito Tomanelli says:

    Thank you so much for your reply to my comment Stacey! It means a lot to me!
    There is so much I have to share about Spirituality!

    Thanks again so much for your reply.

    Vito

    Reply
  67. Chris
    Chris says:

    Very well put together! It explains a lot of who I am and what has taken place. My first interaction with a Red Tail Hawk was when I just turned 13, was mowing the church lawn. Saw a young Red Tail Hawk on a stump looking right at me. I was wanting to get closer, so I slowly walked close enough to touch him. But I didn’t. A very interesting intense moment. I’ll NEVER FORGET! I’m 41 now

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Isn’t it amazing how these moments stick with us for our entire lives? This speaks to the great power the spirits of these animals bring into our lives. We are so lucky to share this earth with them! All the Very Best, Stacey

      Reply
  68. Nancy
    Nancy says:

    Ive been going through some sort of self renewal this past week. I’m really trying hard to keep my spirits high. The hawk has always been somehow around me in times of need or when i’m transitioning from some sort of life event. I’ve been battling a little with what i call, subconscious depression. This morning was great! I woke up, made myself some watermelon juice, tried a little yoga and cleaned my place up a bit. By mid day i hit a slump and found my self not wanting to get up to eat. so, i did what my subconscious depression does best, sleep. I must admit i hated myself for doing this, being that I’ve been trying really hard not to have that pattern anymore. Anyhow, I woke up to the sound of many many finches crying out and something told me to get up and check out what was happening outside. Sure enough, i get up walk to my window and what do i see? A young red tailed hawk fly out of our pomegranate tree and then rest himself on our fence. instantly, at the view of the hawk i become amazed and overwhelmed with emotions of a fighter. I told my self “you have to keep going” I finally ate and picked an outfit so i can go out and face the this wondeful world. I feel great again and thanks to my spirit animal i know have to keep pushing.

    Thank you for this wondeful article.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Nancy, You are very, very welcome. And thank you for sharing the direct and tangible way that red-tailed hawk spirit animal has helped you. Stories like yours remind us all that working with spirit animals has real benefits we can’t deny. Many Blessings to You, Stacey

      Reply
  69. Anna L
    Anna L says:

    Hi Stacey,
    Thank you for your post on this stunning creature. For about 3 years I have know that the red tail hawk is one of my personal spirit guides. It appeared as I was developing my connection to the spirit and Earthly world. He has come in person and in dreams in the past. This year I am making a transition from a secure and stable job, to going out into private practice and contract employment. This is a scary transition as I’m frequently afraid of taking huge risks with my money, etc. Last night I had a overwhelming dream. My husband and I were walking, and I watched a large stunning red tail hawk circle above us several times. In the dream I told my husband that this is my spirit animal. As I watch the hawk fly in the same spot, he then dives quickly toward the cement floor and kills itself in front of my feet. I’m shocked, and perplexed, but deep inside I know it was time for the hawk to go. I cry and watch as a homeless person picks the hawk up and tries to revive it, but I tell them that hmthd hawk passed on.

    I’m having a hard time understanding this dream, and I have never witnessed an animal suicide in my dream, nevertheless my spirit animal.

    I would appreciate any feedback or guidance.
    Namaste,
    Anna.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Anna, That is a very powerful and impactful dream. The intensity of it matches the intensity of the life transition you are embarking on. I do not see the dream as a bad omen, but simply as a message. The suicide does not concern me. Red-tailed hawk spirit animal may very well be showing you the perils of getting stuck in circular vision. Remember to allow your new path to expand out before you and try not to keep the vision too small out of fear of lack. Whenever we take a leap of faith that has an unknown outcome and that involves our financial wellbeing we tend to go to the worst possible place – fear of ending up broke and homeless. The hawk is showing you that this kind of imagining will get you nowhere fast. In the grips of this fear, we try to keep small and control every aspect of the new venture. Remember that there is so much yet to discover on this new venture and that the whole sky is open to you. Trust in the strength of your wings and courage of your heart and turn out of the circular patterns of worry or control you may be slipping into. Many Blessings and Best Wishes, Stacey

      Reply
    • Vito tomanelli
      Vito tomanelli says:

      Wow that must have been a jolting dream. Thank you so much for sharing !! I can truly identify with the Hawk connection and have also experienced this while I became recently enlightened

      Reply
  70. Renee
    Renee says:

    Hi Stacey
    Thank you for your post on the hawk.
    For a few years now I have been wandering about a real life situatiin I had with a hawk followed by a dream.
    At the time I was living in Tucson Arizona I was walking my dog in the early morning g hours. I heard this burden crying sound coming fromonths on top of my apartments. I looked up to see what I believed was a very large brown Harrison hawk. I remember thinking oh my God I hope that hawk doesn’t try to attack us. About THE time she came swooping down over our heads and landed on a near by electrical pole. At that time I could see a white band across the tail feathers. We back inside and dismissed the encounter as we were probably just to close to a nest. I laid back down and had a dream that I was with two hawks a male and a female the female was on a platform that I was siting on and she had one wing up one down she was not moving but dormant. As I got the feeling she was a live. The male was by my knee and sound flew off ..when he left he left behind 3 of his feathers. I could see myself in the dream my right arm was shedding it’s skin and had a few sore places on it. Then I woke up not knowing what to make of the dream. Do you have any insights?
    Thanks
    Renee

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Renee, Thank you for sharing your real-time and dreamtime experiences with hawks. I would suggest taking the symbolism of vision that comes with hawks and looking at your own ability to see an overview of what is going on in your life. The feminine side of you (female hawk) has a vision that is intuitive, feeling and receptive. The masculine side (male hawk) has vision that is active, logical and strategic. Always when we have a male and a female show up in a dream this is a call to evaluate the balance of the two sides of you. It sounds like your intuitive side was dormant, waiting to move, but frozen. The active, logical side sounds like it was very alive and flowing. The fact that your arm (which is about reaching out) was shedding it’s skin shows that your masculine side (right side) was also going through a transformation. Altogether, a lot of movement in the logical realm, but stasis in the intuitive realm. Remember both are needed in balance for a healthy you. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  71. Marcia Wallker
    Marcia Wallker says:

    Hi Stacey, Last week I was coached live by a Martha Beck Master coach. A rabbit appeared during this coaching session. Later the same day I was out for a drive with my aunt and saw a hawk with a mouse on the ground. When we got close the hawk flew away with the mouse in it’s talons. My aunt commented how it is rare to see a hawk in the city. Later still in the same day I drove across the city to visit my mother who has been moved from the hospital to a senior’s home. I took my mom out in her wheel chair for a short walk/ride. When we can around the corner I noticed a large bird sitting on top of the Christian cross that is situated on the highest point of the building. This of course had me going, “Hmm?” Today, five hours away sitting in my kitchen I noticed a hawk zip down into my back alley. I have not seen a hawk near my yard in seven years. Only one thing left to do and that was to go to your web-site to look-up rabbit and hawk spirit. Thank you for sharing your inspired insight. I do need to get up high and see the whole picture as well as listen to the mystical guides.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Marcia, It is lovely to hear from you! I see you liking my posts on Facebook – thanks for your support! – but I don’t often hear your stories, so this is wonderful. How fun to have so many animal encounters all strung together. These times when everything seems to jump out at us are a time of mystical quickening or awakening. Be sure to relish this period of your life and take copious notes! These images and encounters will be food for your soul for years to come. Don’t forget too our friend mouse spirit animal, he has much to teach: https://www.wildgratitude.com/meaning-of-mouse-spirit-animal/. You’re so welcome for the insight and I look forward to an update on how this all unfolds. So many stories weaving together are bound to make for layers of deep personal insight and growth. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  72. Jossy
    Jossy says:

    Hello my mother’s been in a coma for several weeks due to a respiratory illness. It wasn’t until a few days ago that things really went downhill. This morning my bf and I were out on a walk in the woods and a red tailed hawk swooped down in front of us then onto a branch. We got closer and closer to it but it never flew away. We stood there for several minutes in amazement and as we were leaving the woods I received a text that my mother had passed peacefully in her sleep.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Jossy, Thank you for sharing this tender experience. I had a similar experience of a red-tailed hawk visiting me at the exact moment my uncle died. The hawks seem to come to us like guardian angels to say, “All is well. Your loved one is with us now.” It is one of the most precious things we have the fortune to experience. Blessings to you as you move through this transition, Stacey

      Reply
  73. Amanda
    Amanda says:

    I had a dream last night of a bird of prey. I was in the woods with friends and saw it in a nearby tree. ‘Wow’ I thought ‘what bird is that?’ and then it just flew right up to me, as if it was letting me take a closer look! I memorized it. So I was able to search the internet in the morning. It was a Red tailed Hawk! Prior to my dream I’ve never seen one before. We don’t get them over here in Wales, UK. I feel blessed to have one appear in my dream 🙂

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Amanda, That’s a very fun story! Isn’t that amazing that we can have dreams of animals we’ve never seen before?! I had that happen once with a vermillion flycatcher of all things! You’ll have to make a pilgrimage to the states someday to see your new spirit guide in the flesh :). The good news is that they are pretty easy to find around here. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  74. Laurie Nathe
    Laurie Nathe says:

    Hi Stacey: It’s been an unusual few months, you replied to my comment about the 4 young owls that were dead on the road as Change! I was worried it meant death to me or my Mother. This year, I had taken a job driving bus to pay the bills (not my passion) however grateful and this is where I had seen the owls all within a week! when you replied that it meant change which is what in my heart of hearts I know I need to make some changes. So the next few days I had off and decided that I needed to focus on what I really wanted to change, was it location, or just work on my business? Then I had to go to work and drive and the first bus they gave me the battery was dead! second bus the door wouldn’t open (low air) and I said WOW the universe really wants me to CHANGE jobs for sure.

    Today, I went for a hike high on a hill looking over Old Snowmass valley ( one of my favorite places in the world) I was looking for guidance, As I sat up on top of this great hill looking over the valley and all the fall colors and mountains, I though it’s a beautiful world we live in and felt so much gratitude. Then when driving back home, I took the back gravel roads, I always love to do this and low and behold on one of the large round bails of hay was a Red Tail hawk, he was big and yes he was looking and observing. I sat and watched him and then I made a call of a critter and he turned his who body and looked at me. HE was big! Then he flew away. Then driving down the road, I noticed another and I was so glad to see them alive, flying and at peace in this beautiful valley, not a lot of traffic, so NO dead birds!
    Still trying to figure out the Change, I love where I live and love the change of season’s. However, not a big fan of WINTER! So change in a way that I find new work? Which hasn’t manifested in the way I wanted here. So not sure if the change is in location or just a change of perspective (like the hawk?) So frustrated in knowing where to go? Here in Colorado or tropical? Will be at a Meditation Workshop all weekend and hope to find some peace and clarity. Any support or guidance would be appreciated.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello again Laurie! I love how this is unfolding as a dialogue for you. I often tell people that if they had the answer their spiritual life would dry up. Think for just one moment that if you knew the exact nature of this change how you might already be out doing something “important” and have missed the opportunity to commune with the red-tailed hawk! Life is an unfolding as is our relationships with our spirit animals. Thank you for showing up for the important process of noticing and listening. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  75. Nichol lucas
    Nichol lucas says:

    Where ever I go red tail hawks are following me ,what does this symbolize! ? Every time I turn around there is a red tail hawk and my family doesn’t seem to see them?

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Nichol, I encourage you to read back through my article on the meaning of red-tailed hawk and see if anything stands out or speaks to you. Then, spend some time sitting or walking in silence contemplating what life challenges you are confronting that may relate to the teaching in the article you resonate with. Writing about all of this in a journal over a number of days can help you gain even more clarity. To know the messages of the animals we must also know ourselves. Spend some time in self reflection and see what new vision comes. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  76. Lonette Moretti
    Lonette Moretti says:

    I’ve been going through some rough times and I just lost a horse due to getting hit by a train this past Thursday. Yesterday I noticed a young red tail hawk sitting on my fence post at my arena and I was giving a riding lessons. It just watched for a bit and flew off. It then came back but was sitting on a branch close by just out of my site. I wasn’t sure if it meant anything but last night I kept thinking about that hawk and started researching it. Could it mean something.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Lonette, I am so sorry to hear of your loss and in such a shocking tragic way. My heart goes out to you. I lost one of my horses earlier this year and am still missing her presence in my life. I have noticed, and you might have too in reading through the comments, that red-tailed hawks often visit people after a loved one’s passing. I imagine that the hawks are bringing us good tidings, a greeting of sorts, from the spirit of our loved one on the other side. Many other people have shared with me this same impression, which leads me to believe it has a universal truth to it. Hopefully this brings you some comfort to sense that your horse has sent the hawk to come check in with you and offer you comfort during this trying time. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  77. Thomas David Hensley
    Thomas David Hensley says:

    I love your article and will be looking for your book. At some point in my life I became aware of the red tail hawk as my spirit guide. I know that when I see one I’m either in the right place or headed in the right direction. I’ve also experienced their warnings, as in flying directly across my path very close as in to say, turn around and go the other way. I know God moves in many and mysterious ways and I believe the red tail hawk in all its forms and beliefs is part of His creation.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Thomas, I agree spirit animals are one of the beautiful ways that we can connect with the Creator. Thank you for honoring the red-tailed hawks as God’s creatures. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  78. Dena
    Dena says:

    I have always felt a strong connection to red-tailed hawks. They seem to appear to me whenever I am struggling, contemplating, and their appearance gives me a strong sense of peace. I have been having a very difficult time getting past the ending of a relationship with someone whom I thought, and still think, to be my “soulmate”, if such a thing exists…red-tails often appear to me when I am in moments of reflection about him. The past few weeks have been particularly difficult and I have been seeing as many as 10 red-tails a day, on my daily runs and just driving in my car. Yesterday, while pining for the reconciliation with this man, a red-tail swooped over me on its way to roost in a tree and dropped it’s prey, a squirrel, a few yards away from me. Do you have any insight as to meaning of this encounter? I always choose to believe it means that there is still hope for us, but I also know that’s what I most want to believe.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Dena, It may help you to also read my article about squirrel spirit animal: https://www.wildgratitude.com/squirrel-meaning-squirrel-spirit-animal/. I applaud your awareness in knowing that you may be imposing a meaning that is the outcome you wish for. That is important in terms of discerning true guidance. Rather than having the hawks say whether your relationship is or isn’t going to work, how about other explorations? Are you afraid of being embarrassed in front of friends and family if it doesn’t work out? Will they give you a hard time for trying again? Are you trying to prove to others that this is true love? How are other people’s opinions driving the choices you’re making in the relationship? Rather than worry about the outcome, try meeting yourself where you are and addressing the fears, anxieties and insecurities that you have the opportunity to heal right now. Spend this time alone taking care of you. Then, if the two of you come back together again later on, you’ll be better for him in the relationship. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  79. Luca Montana
    Luca Montana says:

    Thanks for this information. I went through traumatic childhood and equally traumatic divorce. All the people that are supposed to covet you such as a Father and Wife have betrayed me in the worst possible ways and I have been disassociated with people for the past 6 years and have had a very close bond with my pets – 2 dogs and a bird.

    I heard a very strange sound the other day, as if it was some animal in distress. I opened my front door to see a juvenile red hawk just 10 feet in front of me. He had a robin in its talons and looked at me. I didn’t interfere to free the robin and was amazed that the hawk had no fear of me.

    He flew off after about 10 minutes. I thought the scene was just very strange so I started to look up any significance of these types of incidences and stumbled upon an entire library of organized information detailing how animals bring ‘medicine’ to humans. It all made sense to me. Why would dogs need to yield 2 litters per year? More dogs = more medicine. I have to say that my own 2 dogs which I raised and had gotten just 1 year before my divorce have given me strength, peace and solace that I know I could not have found with out their help.

    I will continue to learn more about animals and how they bring messages and “medicine” to humans.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Luca, What a gift to have the visit from the hawk and to have this discovery of a new understanding of animal medicine. I can definitely tell you that there is no end to the wonder you’ll find along this path. Enjoy and keep me posted as to how it goes! Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  80. Amy
    Amy says:

    Thank you. I have been buzzed by more red tail hawks in the last 3 months than I have ever seen in my life. Time to sit up and listen.

    Reply
  81. Alex
    Alex says:

    I’ve been boxing as a kid (10 years old) always been spiritual I stopped around 21-22 I’m 26 getting back into it feel like it’s my calling any how I was running look up ahead of the trail and saw a red tailed hawk looking at me literally 10 feet away it wasn’t hurt from what I saw but it was on the ground looking directly at me! Mind you I just passed this trail so as I came back jogging I was at lost of words by its powerful eyes looking into mine didn’t feel scared I felt spiritual shocked and happy I read the article and I’m thankful for this but can some one tell me what it is I need to do I’m so lost does this mean to be strong mentally and focus on my calling (boxing) because I’m just surprised

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Alex, That would be surprising! We forget so easily that the animals are looking at and watching us all of the time until something like this happens to wake us up! I think your insight that the message may be to stay strong mentally and focus on your calling is a very keen insight as hawk symbolism is related to focus. Remember the ability of hawks to both zoom in and get very focused on their prey as well as their ability to take in the whole landscape at once. Stepping back from time to time and taking in the whole of your life will help everything stay balanced. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  82. Kate Swartz
    Kate Swartz says:

    Hello Stacey,
    My mother sent me this link today after I told her I saw at least 15 red tails today. I almost hit two of them ( one landed right in front of me and took off in time [ I did slow down], the other swooped down on front of my car). I also saw three separate Hawks hovering/ hunting close to the road, something I’ve never witnessed before strangely. The first one was less than a minute before the one landed before me. Each time I was the only car near.
    I’ve told my mom before that whenever things are not right in my life, I start seeing red tails everywhere. I always thought it was strange that I always managed to look up at just the right moment while driving to see them perched or flying. It’s like I always know exactly where to look. For this I have believed them to be a spirit guide for me, as well as the wolf, who I’ve been told is also a way my grandfather, who is passed, represents himself to me.
    My three month old daughter was born with some kidney issues. She had surgery at 6 weeks old, and recently had a follow up procedure and bloodwork. Today I saw all these Hawks before I found out that some of her bloodwork was off. I’ve prayed like crazy for our little girl. I hope this means that she’s going to be okay. Or maybe it has to do with me feeling lost as a newly stay at home mom. I love being able to be home with her and our five year old son, but I’ve had a hard time adjusting and not making my own money. I’m very independent, so I’m struggling.
    Thank you for the information above. I needed that.

    What is your take on the wolf who I often see when I close my eyes? He’s very ” loud,” if you will.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Kate, I love that your mom sent you the link to my website! My mom and I have a similar relationship. Throughout my life she points me to different spiritual books and resources. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for her! I am sorry to hear of your daughter’s kidney issues and the recent blood test results. That must be very challenging to endure. I hope your family gets all the support it needs and that everything turns out okay. I wish I could say that the arrival of the 15 hawks in one days means good fortune, but their messages are not so black and white. The upside is that when we come out of looking for a quick assessment of “good luck” or “bad luck” that we have access to more support and guidance than we ever could imagine. Given the red-tailed hawks immense and long-term presence in your life, I would suggest that they relate to both the situation with your daughter as well as your feelings around your new role. In fact, red-tailed hawk spirit animal could be speaking to the whole of you and asking for an inner shift. As far as your question about the wolf, you can read more about wolf spirit animal here https://www.wildgratitude.com/wolf-spirit-animal/. If you think of it, I’d love an update on how your daughter is if/when you have the time. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  83. Jen
    Jen says:

    It’s so interesting to read this. I struggle with infertility. When I finally became pregnant with my son, I was very uneasy and afraid of miscarriage. Well I started to notice that I would see a red tailed hawk every day. For some reason, it made me feel relief and assurance that everything was ok. My husband used to tease me that I felt this strange connection with the Hawks I would see. Here i am again…6 years and multiple fertility treatments later, pregnant with my second child. Well guess what? Suddenly I am seeing a red tailed hawk every single day! Often they swoop down in front of my car, or I will see them up on a hydro post. Again, I get an overwhelming feeling of “everything is ok. Baby is ok” when I see them! Makes good sense to me that they are a divine messenger 🙂

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Jen, I’m glad to hear of your recent good fortune. I wish you all the best with your pregnancy, birth and new child. It sounds like not only are the hawks divine messengers but they are also healers for you, quelling your anxiety and thus helping the health of you and the baby. Miracles do come on wings! Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  84. RC
    RC says:

    I see redtailed Hawk’s everywhere. Regularly…when I’m outside or driving. And a large one lives in a field by my window at work… And it comes and goes over the years…I have also had close incounters on the ground once in the middle of the field with a giant one that stood there and let me walk up to it quite close…or sometimes im even tempted to pull my car over when they’re low, perched on a sign on the side highway…. Or I feel the need to point them out to my passengers in my car…whom Often seem indifferent to them. Lol
    I have just gone through a divorce and I’m struggling and have always struggled a bit in my life with depression … Low self-esteem but paradoxical in personality ..I am a lot of opposites and contradictions
    And I have read a lot of your comments to others about the general meanings of red tails in ones life… Can you give me any more information or advice based on what I have experienced… i’ve always felt a bit of OBbsesssed with them …Not knowing why.. And they are my favourite animal..
    Also! was wondering what it means when I frequently see other small birds attacking a hawk in small groups, perhaps in defence, and flying and swooping around a redtail in mid air … Often seems that the other birds are the attackers …. And I feel for the Redtail when I see it … But Assume the little birds are protecting their nests or something. I see that a lot …
    I have no idea that red tails meant any of this until tonight so please enlighten me with any other information is how I can connect more with them to help me change and heal and grow..thx

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello RC, I find that when we become obsessed with certain animals it is because we yearn to possess the qualities they do. It is a natural way we intuitively know to help find a way to balance our systems. By gravitating to the red-tails you are showing your intention of becoming more like them and acquiring similar strengths. And, you are correct about songbirds mobbing the red-tails. It is a defense strategy to either protect the nest, young birds, or territory. I don’t feel too sorry for the hawks in this circumstance because the songbirds are usually the ones that have to move when the red-tails show up. It’s an interesting reminder of the give and take we have in any relationship – work, home, or otherwise. Sometimes we give others space and sometimes we need to stand up and speak up to have others respect ours. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  85. RC
    RC says:

    Also- I wasn’t sure if I just noticed them more than others.. Or they around me more.. Or law of attraction? And it’s not like I look for them really- or consciously – it’s more like I sense them and its like i know exactly where to look to…A tree, a light post, the sky, on a sign, where other people wouldn’t see them… Like im so tuned into their silhouettes and presense. Always just thought it was a hobby or passion of mine to notice them..
    Really interesting read …. Thx

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello again, That’s a good question. Red-tails are pretty prolific birds and are very conspicuous. That is part of the reason why I think so many people see so many of them, but I also think it has to do with the law of attraction and divine synchronicity because not every person has that experience and we also don’t have that experience continually. There are some times I see a red-tail every time I go outside and other times in my life where I go as long as a month or more without seeing one. The patterns in the sightings most likely correspond to patterns of what’s going on in your own life.

      Reply
  86. JD Bettencourt
    JD Bettencourt says:

    After a very hard argument with my girlfriend I was driving around the town when there was a hawk who flew in front of me and landed on a fence. He perched there and in the brief encounter of me passing him going about 40mph, I looked over to him on the fence and made eye contact. I can’t explain how powerful that eye contact was but it drew me in, I saw a brown square as I was drawn into his black eyes almost like a picture frame and I felt like I had seen something important. As I drove past his head followed me, and he remained there until out of sight. I really believe this could have meant something, I am only 19 and I feel like this is so much greater than me. What could it have meant? I’ve never felt something so powerful and I’ve never been so overcome with emotion so suddenly.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello JD, To lock eyes with one of these wild and free beasts is truly a magical thing. I’m so happy for you that you had the benefit of that experience and that you were able to show up to have it! I love how the encounter pulled you out of the mindset of the argument and into a much greater way of being. The picture frame could very well be a message about how you “picture” or see things and/or not getting stuck in a box. Hawks have the ability to take in an entire landscape at once and also focus in at will. The ability to do so yourself is also possible. The sticky moments of life, like arguments with loved ones, can cause us to forget our ability to shift our point of view. But, this hawk didn’t let you forget for long it sounds like! Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  87. Sherri Dunwoody
    Sherri Dunwoody says:

    Thank you, Stacey. Today, I decided to look up the true meaning of what my spirit guide is….I have known this has been my guide for several years, but, never actually looked up the meaning….I recently this summer found a red tail dead on my property…close to a deer the coyotes had killed…I was very angry…I collected the feathers, and kept them. It is January, 2017….and the other day, a red tailed hawk flew across my back yard…have never had one this close….they usually nest in the wods….what does this mean?? It is freezing here!

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hell Sherri, I believe that our spirit animals send us messengers to come visit us over and over again to keep us guessing. As long as we are guessing about what’s going on, we are engaging, and that is truly what they are asking us to do. By engaging with the red-tailed hawks in your environment you are connecting with the power of the red-tailed hawk spirit animal. This relationship will continue to unfold over time and bring you new insights. My hope is that your quest to know more about them will never end, for that means you will always be connected. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  88. W
    W says:

    Thanks, I’m glad I found this article. I recently confessed to my husband – at the risk of sounding like a nutjob – that I feel like red tails are my guardians, and that they bring me messages all the time. I had no idea that being messengers was their symbolism. I think it has to do with the fact that I had a rough childhood, but they nested in the oak trees behind our house, and ever since, I feel comforted when I see them. But I do feel like I get messages from them all the time as well, unless it’s just that they cause me to look inside.
    Thanks for making me at least feel that there is actually something to the connection I feel to them! 🙂

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      You are most welcome! Understanding that we are connected with the natural world and the spirit world is an ordinary thing that we’ve lost touch with. Once we are courageous enough to admit that we believe what we see, we realize it’s crazy not to pay attention! Many Blessings to You, Stacey

      Reply
  89. Michelle Scott
    Michelle Scott says:

    Hi Stacey.
    I am so glad I found this post. I have been having encounters with hawks the past few months. The last two have left me realizing that I am supposed to pay attention to what message they might be bringing me. However, I still don’t know what that message is. I would love for you to share any insights you might have. Thank you in advance for your time.
    My first encounter happened in September 2016. I stepped up to my kitchen window and looked into my back yard at the exact moment that a hawk swooped down and grabbed a blue jay in its talons and flew away. At the time, I thought it was so cool that the timing was so perfect for me to see that happen. I knew it was a rare occurrence. I posted about it on Facebook. A few months later, in December over Christmas break, I started to notice that every time I was driving down the highway in my car (which was daily or almost daily at the time), a hawk would fly across the road right in front of my car. This happened for like 7-10 times in a row, every single time. The first time, it seemed to swoop toward my car, almost like it was trying to get my attention. After that, they would just fly right in front of me. I definitely began to wonder about the significance of it after it happened several times. Then, in mid-January, I was on my way to Springfield and I realized I hadn’t seen a hawk. I thought the streak was over. Boy, was I wrong! That night at about 10:00, as I was on my way home, a hawk suddenly flew up from the side of the road and almost hit my windshield. I could see its whole underside and full wingspan. Though I had suspected before that there must be some meaning behind these hawk encounters, and I even told my friend about it, this time I knew for certain that this was something I could not ignore. The problem was, I didn’t know what the meaning or the intended message was. I called my friend immediately after it happened, and she started researching on the internet to see if she could find out what it might mean. The next morning, I researched it myself for a while. We discovered that a hawk is usually a messenger that is guiding one to look at the bigger picture and follow one’s intuition toward some kind of change. Interesting, but I still didn’t understand what I was supposed to do with all of this.
    For a while after that night, I didn’t notice any more hawks. Then, two days ago, I was driving down a country road on my way to go hiking. In the distance, I saw that there was a large bird in the middle of the road up ahead. I figured it was a buzzard eating road kill. I honked my horn to try to get it to fly away, but it just sat there. As I got closer, I realized it was not a buzzard. It was some kind of bird of prey, but I couldn’t tell what kind. It continued to sit there as I drove right by it. I watched in my rear view mirror as I kept driving a little ways, and noticed it still had not flown away. I thought it must be injured, and I didn’t want it to get hit by a car, so I stopped and began to back up, hoping to scare it out of the road. My car got closer and closer, but the bird just sat there. I stopped my car right beside the bird, and it was then that I could see for sure that it was — you guessed it — a hawk! I swung my car door all the way open. I was within 3 feet of the hawk. He (she?) just sat there looking at me. I said hi and asked if it was okay or if it was hurt or sick. The hawk continued to stare at me. I told it that it needed to get out of the road so it wouldn’t get hit. The hawk was looking me straight in the eyes. I didn’t know what to do, but I knew I needed to try to get the hawk out of the road. I put my foot on the ground and started to move toward the hawk. At that moment, it gracefully took flight, leaving me in a state of awe and wonder. The only thing that would’ve made this experience any stranger (especially after all of the other encounters I had had), is if the hawk would have started talking to me. I would’ve welcomed that, because then I would know what all of this means. It is now my mission to try to figure out what in the world I am suppose to learn &/or do. I have been journaling and reflecting these past few days. I sure hope it all becomes clear soon.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Michelle, I think that is the intention of these encounters, to get you to start reflecting and being more mindful in your life. We too often expect the answer to be some sort of mission, new job, or written instructions. Funny thing is that in our search to find the answer, we end up doing what the spirits call us to do. Pay more attention, be self-reflective, look for synchronicities, and open up to the wonder of life. You’re doing it all and still thinking you missed the mark. Sorry to say, I don’t think you’ve missed anything. From where I sit, you’re right on track. It may be confusing, I know, but since you’ve had this many intimate encounters, this has gone WAY beyond a simple message and into a whole new way of life. Trust where you’re going and give yourself some credit for all the brilliant work you’re putting into being with the mystery of your life. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  90. Jen
    Jen says:

    Found your article today after an amazing red hawk experience yesterday. Over the last two months, I have seen them in my very small suburban backyard, hovering high overhead in my neighborhood, being chased by three black crows, and then yesterday this happened. My dog was at the front window barking, which is somewhat common–she is a Yorkie. I got up to see what she was barking at and looked out the window, up and down the street. Nothing. I even said to her “I don’t know what you are barking at, nothing is out here.” And, then with such grace, I see this red-tailed hawk flying up the street…literally hovering 3 to 4 feet at maximum over the surface of the street…wings spread and gliding. It went right in front of my house, so slowly and my breath was taken away by its beauty and ease. It flew upwards and perched in a tree two doors up from my home. It was so divinely timed…and felt like it was just for me.
    I read your post, and many others. I have been writing a book for the last year, a memoir. . .and have gotten a bit stuck–with finishing it up and getting certain chapters written…procrastinating. Today, while sitting and reading through the symbolism, I recalled a really poignant moment from my youth, canoeing with two male friends, when one of them handed me a hawk feather he found as we paddled past it on the water. Even at that age, and not as mystic as my current self, I felt that it was symbolic and meaningful. Realizing now that hawk has been with me for 25 years. That just gave me the shivers. Thank you for your website and sharing your gift through your work.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Jen, You are most welcome. Thank you for sharing your encounters with hawks and your recent revelation. Your connection with the thread of meaning that hawks have brought to your life is most dear to me. I hope you do find a shift soon in your writing. Sometimes it is good to take a break and let things settle in for a time. We are so accustomed to do, do, doing in our society that we forget to go sit on a telephone pole and watch life for awhile just like our trusty red-tailed friends do. Many blessings and best of luck with your book! – Stacey

      Reply
  91. Janet
    Janet says:

    A hawk landed on my balcony (previous residence) … we lived on the 8th floor: a busy metropolitan area, too!!!! I snapped pics; and this bird came back a few different times! In one of the pictures – I see a face… the face is clear as as day; it is the face of my late uncle Rob!
    Quite spectacular, really! Too bad I can’t share it here!

    Thanks for your writing!

    Best,

    Janet

    Reply
  92. Natalie
    Natalie says:

    Thanks very much and blessings to you! I recently discovered a red tail took up residence in our backyard….One morning he was on our back porch! Now I am so grateful for his presence and you explaining his message..Thanks a blessings for all you do ????

    Reply
  93. Marie
    Marie says:

    Yesterday my fiancee son and I were walking in the forest behind our place. We saw to hawks together, they kept flying over us. We also saw 2 bald eagles soaring above us as well on the walk. Today as I was walking to the trail I saw another hawk I stopped and took a few pictures as it flew from tree to tree. It was looking right at me. What is the messsage I am beinf sent.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Marie, In reviewing this article and my article on Eagle Spirit Animal, what stands out most to you? Is it the element of belonging? What about receiving spiritual guidance? How about connecting with loved ones who have passed? How about working with symbolic vision? It’s time to do an inner inventory and see what is transpiring within you and then find what resonates in either my write-ups or others that you find to bring you deeper insight. Best of luck and have fun! – Stacey

      Reply
  94. Greg Bishop
    Greg Bishop says:

    Hi Stacey,
    I’m a musician, a Rolfer and a sound healer and have recently re-discovered a love for photography. Red Tails have been significant for me my whole life. In more recent years I’ve come to believe that Red Tails are my main messenger, but that many birds, animals, water, snow, mountains, clouds, dirt, rocks and stars bring me blessings and messages. I’ve had several experiences lately where Ravens photo bomb me! I believe strongly in intuitive giftings and messages from the universe that come regularly. An alchemist looking for signs if you will. Yesterday I was working at my window and had this experience and was able to capture the best photos I’ve ever gotten of my beloved Red Tail! I’ve posted them on Facebook with the story. https://www.facebook.com/greg.bishop.39566/posts/10212529118132099?notif_t=like&notif_id=1490382364001728 I would be interested in your thoughts. Thank you! Greg

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Greg, Those are lovely photos! Thank you for sharing. When the experiences with any spirit animal pile up beyond any number we can keep track of it starts becoming less about the specific message and more about the bond. Red-tails especially seem to enjoy a level of intimacy with us that is quite profound. Maybe even that in itself is part of the message for you. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
      • Sharmaine Willis
        Sharmaine Willis says:

        Hi dear today on my job I was walking an I see every body looking up when I look it was two red tail hawk on one building an across from that building was another one three of them they were just siting on the building what does this mean

        Reply
  95. Scott
    Scott says:

    Stacy,
    I had my father pass away about 2 years ago to date and was traveling for work at the time in Texas. It was fairly sudden and a shock. His health wasnt great but he hid the fact from me of how bad it had become, still trying to be the strong father he was!! I was not able to reach him before he passed although, I was able to speak my last words to him by phone. He couldnt really speak to me due to the situation but he heard me. A few hours later he released his spirit back to the earth. That moment was a hard one for me . We had lived afar for many years. All I felt was guilt for not calling more or visiting and being able to reach him. As I walked out from my job to gather my thoughts and look inside myself a Great Red Tail sat across from me in a tree and watched me weep for my loss. After a few minutes I immediately felt the sorrow lift and felt a feeling of enlightenment! My sorrow turned to joy for a great father who had never judged and always guided. I knew who it was and he has followed me ever since! I see him most days..especially when im in need of guidance and dancing with hard decisions in my soul and mind! He’s always there! Almost never the same place or sighting or situation. Ive recently, this week , returned for work to the same place I was upon his passing and same date. As soon as I arrived he was there waiting! I kinda knew he would be! Thanks for your writings and explainations. I’ve always believed in my heart that it was truth. Ive never told anyone before of that day or my beliefs and thoughts. He was an avid bird lover , watcher, and believer in natural spirits. Seems to all make sense, and you helped make more sense of it. Truly thank you and bless you! Your message is strong and truthful! I miss him every day, but we still get to talk silently. His spirit is still watchful, trying to keep me safe and help me on my journey! I often wonder if I’ll follow his path right or make the right decision. I hope so, but hes shown me that we all have our own path to make and choose. But He’ll be there to watch and help when I need him most! Bless you again and may your insights help others see the truth in life and what comes after! Wa Wambley Wotay!

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Scott, From the bottom of my heart, thank you. Your story is a stunning and humbling example of the great power of the natural world to connect us with the supernatural world, the power of hawks to connect us with loved ones on the other side. Thank you for sharing your wisdom with all of us. I believe that first red-tailed hawk you saw helped heal some of your pain by lifting it away. What a gift! Now the others bring your father’s presence closer. You truly are fortunate. Also, the fact that you have the awareness to see what is unfolding around you is a beautiful thing. Bless you. Thank you, Stacey

      Reply
  96. Scott
    Scott says:

    Sorry I spelled your name wrong . I noticed right after my post but was compelled to write quickly. My sincere apologies….. Scott

    Reply
  97. Kay
    Kay says:

    I have had many close up encounters with the great red-tailed hawk. One allowed me to take pictures and stand a couple of feet from him/her.

    The thing that I have noticed is after a red-tailed hawk has visited me I notice a transformation of some sort shortly there-after.

    Just recently I move into an apartment complex and we were moving some stuff in when my son made the comment that one needs to pay attention to synchronicity and signs in ones life. Just as he finished that statement we spotted a red-tail hawk sitting on my balcony.(got a pix) Of all the balconies he could be sitting on and in a busy apartment complex it choose mine.

    The hawk was my first visitor. A main change was occurring in my life at that time but my eyes were also opened up to something major happening in my life and because I listed to my intuition I saved myself thousands of dollars.

    So I do pay attention when a red-tailed hawk appears to me. I always thank them every since the time I was told to watch what they are doing when you see them

    One time I was having some issues in my life that I could not figure out and I was currently learning Reiki. The Reiki Master told me that the easy way to solve my issue is to look at your issue and focus a white cross in front of the issue until you see the issue weaken. Now at the same time I was told to state the following mantra. “You no longer have power over me” State the name of the issue.

    I did this for a couple of day. It was maybe the third day and I was doing this sitting on a picnic table in the park when I look up a see this hawk just a couple of feet in front of me on a branch taring away at his prey. I was in shock to see this bird doing this just a couple of feet in front of me. I felt that there was some sort of meaning behind this so I call the Reiki Master and he said that I will see a shift in my situation.

    The very next day I look outside my bedroom window which is not something that I do often but I felt compelled to do so. I saw a dead cat. I love cats but this cat was aggressive and wild, it seems to be possessed or rabid. Its was dead. Then the Reiki Master told me that evil can take over anything and its possible that was the case with this poor cat.

    After that the issues in my life had cleared up and something else happened. I got a call from an insurance company who owed me money that I was not aware of. It was over 3 thousand dollar. Nice bonus.

    Nature is odd but wonderful

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Kay, It sounds like red-tailed hawk spirit animal has touched your life in many ways. Thank you for noticing the presence of the hawks and for being attentive to your own transformation! Both contribute to a healthier world. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  98. David mçculloch (D.J)
    David mçculloch (D.J) says:

    I have had this baby red tail hawk that showed up on my porch an it left last night an then came back from work today an now it has claimed my couch an blanket …. It welcomed it’s self in through my window an Im not to sure what to think of make of this beautiful Bird jus coming in my home as if to say she is staying an not wanting to leave ….. Any ideas of why this young hawk has chosen my family an home

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello David, I so appreciate what it must be like to have this beautiful bird in your house and I encourage you to close your window and keep her from coming in again. Letting her get too accustomed to the company of humans could prevent her from successfully becoming a truly wild and free animal and I’m sure you wouldn’t want to see that happen. At the same time, it is clear that the energy/spirit of red-tailed hawk has come to visit your home bringing along all of her gifts and wisdom in. You may want to spend some time thinking about who your tribe is and what your relationship to your tribe is currently like. If you’re in need of guidance in terms of getting along with others, you may want to pray to the red-tailed hawk spirit animal for assistance. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  99. Hannah
    Hannah says:

    Thank you for this it has really helped, though i am still not as clear as to the specifics the red tailed hawk is trying to tell but i’ve had a few awesome events with it like, i took a quick walk and it followed me soaring a swooping as i walked along. but lately i feel a may be on the way to waking up even more especially because lately i’ve been saying the same thing right as say it i wonder if it means something or if its just a coincidence i was wondering if you had any thoughts? Anyways again thank you for this it was very enlightening.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Hannah, You are most welcome. It sounds like your connection to guidance is becoming more immediate and open. The energy of the red-tailed hawk spirit animal may actually be helping you become a messenger directly. So often we look for the animals to speak English to us and we forget that on an invisible level beyond words they are teaching us and lending us new power. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  100. steven
    steven says:

    I keep seeing messengers. In the past few weeks I have seen fox, bob cat, hero, egret, red tail hawk. I saw the hawk again today. Hawk took a shake. What is the meaning, what is the message?

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Steven, It seems you’re experiencing a rich flush of animal encounters. I expect you’ll need to take some time to research and contemplate the meaning of each animal and what resonates with you. Be sure to relate the symbolism of the animals back to the questions you are asking in your mind/heart. This is a bit like detective work, picking up clues, sorting through what fits, and piecing together a whole picture. A hawk shaking or “rousing” as it’s technically called, is a sign of relaxation. It may mean that the part of you interested in connecting heaven and earth may be able to relax and not work so hard. It may also mean that you are able to relax in the company of your tribe. Lots of options! It’s up to you to decipher what fits you and your specific situation. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  101. Staci
    Staci says:

    I have a special yet mysterious relationship with Red Tailed Hawks.
    Living in a rural area, I see hawks regularly, however, I’m often greeted in special ways by them. I frequently find them waiting for me on back roads, where they are always standing in the road only a few feet from my truck. I stop, we share a few moments, and then they fly away.
    I had one circle over my home, screeching for hours. Then there was another that called to me, urging me to walk our property line and that’s when I found the hawk dead in the woods.
    For work, I transferred to a new office in a large town over an hour away from home – shortly after I started commuting a hawk began to greet me at a busy intersection that led me to and from my work – it was there in the morning and then again in the evening.

    This morning’s dream has left me uneasy and your site was the first I found. I was surprised to find reference to the chest (shield) of the hawk.
    In the dream: I met a hawk on a back road and stopped, like I always do, to admire its beauty. I remember speaking to the hawk as it hopped closer to me, from the right side of the road around to the driver side door. We sat there staring at each other until the hawk shifted into a native woman. Next thing I know we (the native hawk woman and me) were in my home and there was a man there trying talk the native hawk woman into taking feathers from her chest to give to him. I remember him tossing a small wooden box on the counter urging the woman to put her feathers in the box along with hairs and feathers he had already collected. The native hawk woman did not give up her feathers. Seconds later I heard my dog yelping as the man plucked fur from his chest to put in his box. I was infuriated and desperately tried to defend my dog and get those hairs back, I wasn’t about to allow this man to add to his collection. I woke up during the struggle.
    I’m not sure what this all means but I was absolutely led to your site to read about the “shield”. Like I mentioned, your site was the first site I clicked on for my search, “dreaming of a red tailed hawk”.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Staci, Thank you for sharing your story and the wealth of your encounters with red-tailed hawks. In investigating this dream of yours consider the interplay between your feminine side (intuitive, receptive) and masculine side (active, rational). We all have both and benefit from balancing their power. The knowing you gain in solitary contemplation of your identity in the tribe (feminine) may need to be handed over into action (masculine). Do you trust yourself to bring your truth into the open and act on what you know you need to do? Your dog could represent the part of you that wants to please others and gives up what’s important to you to do so… Just some ideas. This dream is so rich we could easily talk about ways to interpret it for days! You may want to consider meeting with me for an hour Spiritual Direction session to go deeper. You can learn more about that here: https://www.wildgratitude.com/product/spiritual-direction-schedule/. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  102. Melissa
    Melissa says:

    Today I saw a sick red tailed hawk fly into he reservoir and drown…. was very upsetting to see. Not sure what to take from it.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Melissa, I’m sorry to hear of the loss of the hawk and of your sadness in witnessing the event. Whenever I cross paths with an animal that is dead or dying I take it as an opportunity for a long pause. This may be a time to stop and reflect on your place in the tribe, what loved ones on the other side you’re missing, and how you can find the companionship you need. The red-tailed hawk was drowning alone in the lake. I’d suggest looking at where you feel alone and are drowning in your own emotions (grief, sadness, etc.). Who could you reach out to help to? May you find the support that waits for you on angel’s wings. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  103. Ren
    Ren says:

    Blessings to you Stacey! This weekend I was down on the farm helping my folks with the daunting task of cleaning out their farm house of 45 years of stuff/life. The folks are happy to make the transition but there is some old wounds and current emotions between and surrounding other siblings all of our different emotions of the folks leaving the farm for town this spring. (I am the oldest.) As my brother put it recently, I often get put in the role of “Switzerland”.

    When i was driving to town Sat. i saw a red tailed hawk launch right off an electrical high line and zoom straight into the side of an embankment of a creek – clearly to scoop up some sort of prey. I saw the beautiful tail feathers fanned out as he got near to his prey.

    Would you have any perspective to share for me?

    Thank you so much – Ren

    Reply
    • Ren
      Ren says:

      Oh, and i should add that on the way down to the farm (I live 2 hours away in a metropolitan area) I had the fortune to see a beautiful, majestic bald eagle!!!!! WOW right?? Amazing ~ Ren

      Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Ren, Red-tailed hawks are all about tribe and our place in the tribe. It may help you to read my article on the Mediator Archetype: https://www.wildgratitude.com/mediator-archetype/ seeing as you are feeling like the go between in this mix! Either way, the hawk may symbolize a time of self-reflection in regards to the role you play in the tribe and also in regards to how you get what you need to sustain you (hawk landing on prey). It is a tricky one to balance the needs of the family with the needs of the self, but here you have an opportunity to come to a new level of understanding in terms of your role. Already it sounds like you are open to new insight and listening to your intuition as well. This should bear good fruit in the end. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  104. Ted Blake ( Rolling Thundar )
    Ted Blake ( Rolling Thundar ) says:

    Stacy, I have an interesting story about receiving a Red Hawk tail feather. I have a bad knee and have made a cane from a Yucca plant. I was wanting to put a feather on it to represent my love of my Native American heritage . I wasn’t sure what kind of feather I was going to use. This morning I went out to fill the bird bath and fountain that I keep for the birds. There by the fountain was a beautiful Red Hawk tail feather. I took it that the Hawk left it there for me. I thanked the Hawk and am now going to put it on my cane. I guess I now know what my Spirit Animal is. Just something I thought you might like to hear.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Ted, Thank you for sharing your story. It is always a comforting thing when our prayers are answered so immediately and with such beauty. Blessings to you, Stacey

      Reply
  105. victoria
    victoria says:

    Just had a large hawk/eagle fly up off the side of the road I was travelling with a snake in its talons. This feels very important as omens go, I am not sure how to interpret it? Please help.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Victoria, There are many interpretations for this kind of sighting. I will suggest a few and encourage you to search for additional meanings too. Very simply, this could represent taking the power in the tribe, or bringing the power of transmutation (snake) to a higher level. Have you had a big accomplishment recently or are you trying to enact change in your life? The hawk/eagle may very well be highlighting that event and showing your ability to grasp the self-empowerment that is available in this situation. Reading my post about snake spirit animal may help you as well: https://www.wildgratitude.com/spirit-animal-snake-symbolism/. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  106. Maria
    Maria says:

    Hello Stacey,
    I’m wondering if there’s any meaning to a hawk and an eagle flying together, they weren’t fighting or anything, just flying in circles at the same time, I believe the eagle was flying above it. This was also the fourth eagle that I had seen this week. In case my first comment was really lost, the first was fishing, the second and third were flying together.
    I commented on the eagle page, but it didn’t seem to go through. I apologize if this is a repeat comment. Any insight to the meaning of these sightings or any ideas of things to look into? I’m at a loss as to what this means, I’ve been worrying about finding a job so I wonder if it is related to that.
    Thanks

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello again Maria, Your comments did come through on the eagle article. I’m so flooded with questions/comments that it is taking me some time to get to everyone. Thank you for your patience. I did reply to your comment on the eagle post, but I will paste my response here too, just to be sure you get it: That is a lot of eagle sightings in one week! In my experience, the same species of animals show up in succession like this to get our attention. If you’d just seen one eagle, you may have thought “well that’s nice” and gone on your way. But now that you’ve seen four in such a short time you are engrossed in a search for the meaning of their presence. In this way, we are invited into conversation with the divine. How has your spiritual life been? Have you been considering how to find more connection with the sacred? Or are you pursuing a deeper spiritual life? Either way, I encourage you to evaluate the nature of your spiritual life and how you might want to cultivate more connection. I see eagles as the ones that bring divine messages to us and the hawks as the ones that bring our prayers/requests to the Divine. Maybe you’re starting to see the conversation works both ways? See if that fits, and if nothing else, this search and questioning in you is an opening to the holy that is worth any effort. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  107. Patti
    Patti says:

    Dear Stacey,
    This past summer, I stayed with my sister in Virginia. I went out one afternoon to walk my dog, a Jack/Parson Russell terrier. It was just a quick walk, and we had taken that route many times. We had put our paws and feet all over that neighborhood, mile after mile each day. But this was just a quick, afternoon walk before I got back to work. About three houses down from my sister, I was surprised to see a red-tailed hawk sitting low on a garden fixture. I’d never seen one up close. I thought he would fly away as we neared, but he stayed. I maneuvred around to put myself between the bird and the dog, worried that the hawk was going to attack her. Just then, he flew rather gently down from his perch and landed on my sandaled foot.

    My dog was inches from him, but he was uninterested in her (she actively ignored him, smart girl). He stayed on my foot. My right foot. His talons bore into my skin, but he was not trying to hurt me, only trying to gain purchase. It hurt like a cat scratch might hurt. No one was around. No one. No one was walking past, no bikes passing, no cars, no trucks. Just me, the hawk on my bare foot, and my dog on her leash. The hawk often just looked at me. I still remember his brilliant, yellow-green “third eye.” (I have come to believe it was male, as he was about as tall as my knee, which is shorter than the female.) I tried walking, thinking he would fly off, but he didn’t. He just bumped along, so after about 3 or 4 steps, I gave up. At one point, I he began to peck at my foot, which hurt considerably more than this talons. But I calmly asked him to stop and bizarrely, he did. And didn’t start again. After about 10 minutes passed, a man in a red jeep came driving past and I flagged him down. We discussed what he could do — call animal control, call 911 (I didn’t have my cell phone with me), when a postman drove by on the opposite road. I asked the red jeep if he could pull over and see if the mailman had any ideas.

    The red jeep man came back with some gardening gloves he had taken out of his car. He had no experience with birds, but he approached the hawk from behind and picked it up and put it in a crab pot the mailman had waiting for him. The whole time, the hawk was unfazed. He just kept his eyes on me. (In recounting this experience to others, some have suggested to me that I might have reminded him of a trainer he had. But there was no tag on him, so I don’t think he was trained.)

    As the two men were getting the hawk into the mail truck, I went back to my sister’s house. She marveled for a moment about the incident, then ran out to catch the mailman. He told her that the hawk had flown out of the crab pot into a nearby tree.

    Back inside, I bandaged my foot and we sat in my sister’s living room in wonder. My sister practices Shamanism and she got out her Ted Andrews book (Animal Speak) to see what was written there. Meanwhile, a family of mockingbirds was going wild outside her window. We looked up to see the hawk sitting in the tree across the street (where the mockingbirds have a nest) and staring into the living room window at me.

    I went out on the porch and sat, as I felt I needed to let him know “I hear you.”

    The following day, I walked the dog again, this time in the opposite direction. I had spoken briefly with a Native American friend of mine, and he had suggested I give an offering (I think my sister had said that, too). I was thinking that the place I now was, near the canal, might be a good place for one. I looked down and saw… a gorgeous red-tailed hawk feather.

    About a week or two passed before I felt ready to give the offering. I found a tree right near the water. I sprinkled the tobacco at its base. I said out loud something to the effect of “Thank you for coming to me. I am ready to receive your message, if you have one. I am ready to receive your healing.” Not even two seconds passed before I heard the distinct call of the red-tailed hawk. It was all so moving, I began to weep.

    To be honest, I am still overwhelmed by this experience. I feel uncertain how to move forward with it. The last few years have been Extreme Tumult, and I’m not sure if I’m still in the storm or not. I don’t know if he has come for that, or for another reason. And I’m unsure how to proceed with hawk.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Pattie, Thank you very much for taking the time to share your story. I think the key piece is to look to your prayer to the hawk when you said “I am ready to receive your message, if you have one.” First of all, I encourage you to turn that prayer around, and think of the hawk saying that to you. Hawks are known for carrying our prayers to the heavens, and he very well could have been asking for your message to the Divine. What would you like to say to God/Spirit/Creator? The second piece I’d like to point out is “if you have one.” I’d suggest that the hawk has as many messages and more than you could imagine. Him coming down to the earth, your feet speaks of how angels are willing to come to us to assist. I don’t know if you read the Bible, but the story of Mary Magdalene washing Jesus’s feet with her tears also comes to mind. There may also be a call here too to plant your own feet firmly on the earth. There’s so many routes to go and so many that can be true at once. There really isn’t just one answer here. In the same token, there’s not just one prayer from you either. Pour your heart out to this hawk. Let him know all that burdens and what weighs you down. It’s okay, he can handle it. He’s already shown that he can break out of a cage and travel freely whenever he chooses. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  108. Dillon
    Dillon says:

    Hi Stacey, another great read. The redtail is truely amazing. As I’d mentioned on another comment, I’ve had some really interesting dreams about them that have influenced some of my views, and given me a greater love of animals and nature. It has broadened my views. I believe there’s a lot we don’t know. But, I think there is a lot of wisdom to be gained from animals and the natural world. I’ve read your bio. You have some really cool achievements, such as the shaman healing and the good things you do with animals. I wish we had more mystical stuff where I’m at. Nice read. It just gives me more respect for the hawk.

    Reply
  109. Linda Rebello
    Linda Rebello says:

    I have loved Red Tailed Hawks from living in New Mexico in 1972 to present.
    My friend lives in the country, feeds many birds and where she has a storm windowed door, she hangs a few cloth belts for the birds to see, prevents them from flying into the glass.
    Whenever I see a Red Tailed hawk, my heart sores with happiness!
    Linda

    Reply
  110. Juliana
    Juliana says:

    Hello Stacey,
    Thank you for providing such a wonderful website! If you can provide any insight on our sighting it would be much appreciated.
    I was sitting in the kitchen this morning and I looked out the screen door window and saw a Red Tailed Hawk fluttering his wings in the huge vine tree outside in the patio. The tree is made of twisted twigs wound together. My boyfriend has been training it as a nesting area for the many finches in the yard. They love to sit in there as it provides shelter from the wind. It seemed the hawk swooped down and landed on the top of this “cocoon” for the birds and was after a finch, but the birds were protected inside. He was fluttering around flapping his wings a bit as he hit the tree and it’s branches. I called to my boyfriend to come and see as it was so unusual. Then he sat there calmly for a bit and took off to the nearby rooftop. We could see him sit up there with his back to us for a bit and he took off again. We have never seen a hawk land like that here in our small city back patio area. It was “out of the blue”. I did not know what kind of bird it was until I looked it up on the web. It seemed to be a younger one from the photos.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Juliana, What a great opportunity to view a red-tailed hawk up close! I think your assessment of the hawk landing there after a finch is a sound one. Since red-tailed hawk is associated with the idea of the tribe, one way to work with this is to think of your tribe (or even society in general) trying to intrude on your sanctuary, your cocoon. If it’s not the tribe per se, it could be the societal norms or ideas about what you should do. Another way to view this is to see this as the heavens trying to penetrate your cocoon to get a message to you. Both or one of these may be true. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  111. Julie
    Julie says:

    I just started reading your book and I can’t put it down. For as long as I can remember i have always felt a connection with red tailed hawks. I always feel like they are trying to tell me something and I often find it difficult to hear their message. I am trying to learn as much as possible about their connection to my life and this information has been extremely helpful. Thank you for enlightening my soul Stacey!

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Julie, You are so very welcome! I’m so glad to hear you are not only enjoying the book but also learning how to deepen your own connection with the hawks. That is really the reason why I wrote it, so that others can experience the same or more in relationship with the wild ones. If you get a chance and are up for doing me the favor, please post a review of the book on Amazon. The more positive reviews it gets, the more likely it will be found and shared by others. I look forward to staying in touch with you and hearing more of your journey! Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  112. Deb Maguire
    Deb Maguire says:

    Mine too Linda and Stacey- just saw your posts!! Hawks are Special. Here is our experience with them!

    Both my husband and I both believe we witnessed divine intervention from a Red tailHawks. It was about six years ago going to Maine and we were traveling on the highway and my husband said to me, look, there is a hawk on the pole, we went for about another mile or so, again, there was a another hawk on another pole, soon after, our car blew out a tire on the highway going around 65 miles an hour in the high speed lane, the car swerved and managed to get into the breakdown lane, no cars were near us, it was a miracle. We stopped the car, a police officer came, AAA put on the spare and there was a exit a few hundred feet ahead of us, where there was a Sears Auto center, what are the chances. We stopped, got a new tire, took about an hour and proceeded on our way, when we exited Sears, gong back on the highway, we saw the hawk again, on the pole, proceeding on the highway the length of the remaining trip, there wasn’t a hawk in sight. Could this been divine intervention, the hawk the messenger
    How I know this was, just his past week, we were having battery trouble, again AAA came and jumped the car, the weather was negative 2 degrees, The car was fine. We took it out different places. During that week, the was a hawk in our back yard, a Cooper Hawk, my husband know his birds. Then a few days after, we were driving, just up around our neighborhood saw another Hawk, red tail, . Sunday, we took a ride down to South County, RI, went for breakfast, it was very cold, came home. saw another Hawk. the next day, went out to the car, it wouldn’t turn over, called AAA, this time, we replaced the batter, wasn’t holding charge. My husband went to the store for me after AAA left and as he was coming home, a Hawk appeared, We haven’t seen one since.. Are they messengers, letting us know,

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Deb, When car break downs happen, we feel grounded, stuck for a time. Red-tailed hawks are associated with the root chakra, our connection to the earth. I’m sure there are many ways to work with the vast amount of experience here with you and hawks, but one way may be to take this as a message to pause and connect in with yourself, with your guides and with the earth. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  113. Carey
    Carey says:

    A red tail hawk landed in my backyard yesterday. I was sitting on my couch looking at the window at the exact moment. It sat there looking around for a least five minutes. I was mesmerized by him. Such a beautiful majestic bird. I have been feeling ungrounded lately. I am making some major changes in my life in a few months. I will be leaving a job to focus on my true calling as a Reiki Practitioner and spirit medium. I have been working with clients for the last 16 years. I am leaving a job that has given me financial security but no passion. I also plan to relocate to Colorado. I am very excited but feel some anxiety about all the changes I am anticipating. I’m thinking the hawk showed up as a message for me to stay grounded? I do yoga every morning which helps me with grounding. I have been releasing old relationship issues from the past and in some case letting people go and moving on. I am trying to find my new tribe. I just don’t resonate with certain people from my past anymore. I don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings but it appears to me that it is harder for some people to let go. Thank you for your insights. It felt magical seeing the hawk.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Carey, Clearly you already are gathering many deep insights from the hawk’s visit and you are right on track. It also helps to watch the natural world as much as you can. They too are your tribe and the time to stop and watch is very grounding. I’m sure you already know this, but remember this act has more power than you think! Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  114. Ashley
    Ashley says:

    Hi Stacey,

    My family laid my cousin to rest yesterday. I was only nine months older than her and we played together every weekend as children, she was like my sister. She was a drug addict and in the last month before her overdose, she was getting rapidly worse. She went to a rehab center only to almost immediately start again upon getting out. I knew she needed me but she didn’t seem like herself, whether she was high or not. It was hard for me to be around her and to talk to her. I didn’t know how to speak to her from my heart. I neglected our bond and our relationship. She overdosed on the 18th, was resuscitated but remained in a coma, her brain damage was so severe that it would not stop swelling, they took her off life support on the 1st, but I think her brain died the night before, the full blue blood moon. It has been the hardest three weeks of my life and today was my birthday.

    I have seen red tailed hawks in the past, especially around times I have been desperate for direction, answers and signs, and have been praying to God and the angels. Today, on my way to my birthday breakfast, I saw a hawk take off from the side of the road, in front of the car. After breakfast, I saw two more, 13 miles away from the first sighting, one sitting upon the tallest perch on a tall tree at the end of a three way intersection and another flying above a field. The third time, I saw two more flying high above a shopping center, about 10 miles away from the other sightings.

    I have been asking for signs that my cousin is at peace, that she is no longer suffering and that she is in a safe place on the other side. She was a good person who suffered a tragic life. As a child she was manipulated and sexually abused by her stepfather from 2 years old to 16 until she told her then boyfriend and informed law enforcement. There is more dark history surrounding our family that involves my mother, my aunt (my cousins mom) and myself, but nothing to the extent in which my poor cousin went through. She abused drugs and alcohol at a young age, I felt like she was not processing her trauma properly and that she was using the partying as a crutch but I never knew how to address this without fear of offending her. I felt like it was only a matter of time until it got out of control, and tragically, it did, with an opiate addiction that lasted more three years and took her life.

    I always had that general intuition about her and sometimes I would get feelings like something bad would happen and they would, like when she got arrested for accidentally being part of an attempted man slaughter, or when she got in a car accident. I always wanted to say, “No, don’t go, stop, slow down, breathe, stay with me.” I never did because I was afraid of the rejection and the feeling of powerlessness that would almost inevitably come.

    I am wondering if these excessive hawk sightings today, my first birthday without her, a week after she passed and the day after her funeral, could be signs that she is ok? I have been praying since she died, to know, that she is at peace and in a safe place on the other side. I also see repeating numbers a lot, like on my mileage, when I get to a destination, it will say something like, 2,366 miles on the short trip and something like 173,599 on the long trip, at the same time. Example, I just looked at my phone at 22:22 as I was trying to write this response. Also, today, I met two other people with my same birthday, February 8th. I dated a guy who had the same birthday as me a year ago, and we found out on our second date, but I feel that is unrelated. However, in the Secret Language of Birthdays book, it says that February 8th, is the day of precognition, that a lot of people born on this day have, at least, a mild psychic perception. I know I have had strong intuitions about many other things in my life but I always seem to ignore them.

    No matter how much I try to rationalize it, or make reasons on why I didn’t help my cousin more, I keep coming back to the feeling that I let her die. I knew she was sick and I neglected to do everything in my power to help her because I was tired, needed alone time, was scared or sad. I feel like these are not excuses, I feel like I had a duty that I ignored.

    Anyway, this is a bit beside the point, just wondering what you may think of the hawks and the numbers or birthday meetings, if you have any experience in those areas..

    I apologize for the length, I hope you are able to get back to me and thank you so much for the informative article. I know the hawks represent intuition… I am just trying to find a way to spin it, to know my beautiful cousin is no longer suffering.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Ashley, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. When a member of our tribe suffers so do we. I would propose that not only has the hawk come to let you know your cousin is okay but also to bring you the love and support of the heavens. You are loved by the spirits no matter what. Seek self forgiveness. This is a path to healing. May the angels watch over you. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Wow! This is miraculous indeed Eric! What a convergence of events, a job interview and literal run in with a red-tailed hawk. I can’t believe that bird wasn’t injured. How amazing. Thanks for sharing! Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  115. Sabrina Clemens
    Sabrina Clemens says:

    Thanks for the good read. Four days ago, I went to the park with my dog and a red-tail hawk was just perched on the handrail where I usually lean up against. It just stayed there for a few mins , a few feet from me then flew off. The following day I found it on the path I take to walk the dog, unfortunately it was died. It took my breath away. Today walking the dog, I spotted another one on my path , walking the dog, this time it was soaring high in circles, along with 4 black crows. It seemed to follow me as I walked. But crows seem to have left the hawk and I was able to watch the hawk soar around till I got home. I don’t know if this is a message for me, but it feels like they were in my path for a reason.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Sabrina, I trust your intuition that they were in your path for a reason. When we open our eyes and watch there is so much opportunity for insight and guidance to flow to us from the animals. I would suggest that there is likely more than one reason, and I encourage you to keep contemplating and absorbing the magic of these experiences. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  116. LESLIE SANCHEZ
    LESLIE SANCHEZ says:

    on more than one occasion when i was driving and yesterday it happened again he came and soared silently next to the car as i was driving about 70 miles an hour for about 10 seconds

    Reply
  117. Jaharri
    Jaharri says:

    Wow. I had a vision which began with Three Feathers blowing in the wind… So I Googled the feather pattern and found the red tailed hawk… I was trying to figure out what it meant. Thank you so much for this page I feel like you really clarified the message for me.

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Jaharri, You are most welcome. I am glad you have found clarity. What a gift and thank you for visiting this article. I hope to see you around again. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  118. Linda Walker
    Linda Walker says:

    I live in the wilderness of northern Minnesota where my husband and I revel in the wonders of Mother Nature. Our only daughter married a fellow from Indianapolis, moved there, had a beautiful baby boy, and they have bought a home. I am helping take care of my grandson while she and her husband attend college and work part time. I want to be able to live in her area part time and return to Minnesota for several months of the year. My husband supports whatever choices I make for our future. Today I went to look at some land for sale in a rundown part of the city (all we could afford). It is near a large field. High above the lot circled a red tailed hawk. He flew with freedom and abandon, soaring with wide open wings and dipping his beautiful red tail so I was certain of his kind of bird. I wondered what his message to me might be. It felt like he was telling me to “go for it”, but with focus, and yet still with abandon. What do you think?

    Reply
    • Stacey Couch
      Stacey Couch says:

      Hello Linda, There are likely many ways to interpret animal sightings both archetypal and symbolic as well as personal. The message you heard in your heart is as likely a message as anything I or anyone else will write. Many Blessings, Stacey

      Reply
  119. Natalie
    Natalie says:

    Wow, they definitely make a presence. I have been stuck in limbo lately about staying in the city or moving to the burbs and I feel very conflicted on every level. The hawk flew above me today a few times and I know he was trying to tell me something, maybe to take the wide-angel view, but i still don’t know what is best for me and my family. I am grateful he stopped by…I just wish I knew what he wanted to tell me!

    Reply
  120. Sidney
    Sidney says:

    Me and my codriver, whom I call ten hawks, because his firsts day in truck with me , I told him been seeing hawks regularly. That same day he saw ten,which he never ever seen in the wild before from mich to Kentucky on I75s and then a week later in Texas on Texas highway 54 eagle pass. We counted 98 hawks and one eagle like having a honor guard for about 100 miles to make a pickup. We both were blessed that day. So keep seeing and staying aware for you a blessed

    Reply
  121. Ruben Araiza jr.
    Ruben Araiza jr. says:

    I have always been into birds. Raised pigeons as a boy, later doves. A wild Mourning Dove adopted me
    I brought it home hand fed it, never clipped it’s wings, offered it freedom several times but, it would not go.
    Our relationship went on for 4 yrs.
    We communicated through energy, she was very mellow & we understood each other.
    I recently found a red tail hawks feather in perfect condition & was honored for this gift as it was not an accident. The bird wanted me to have it, there are several living in golf courses & I always point them out to my students. I volunteered at the Ojai Raptor Center there were Eagles, various species of hawks, owls etc.
    There was a White Eagle named Avalon who was very unhappy with his new life in captivity. If I recall
    he had a wing removed & could not be released.
    We connected from a distance as if he was asking, begging for me to help him, cause he knew I understood.
    Thx,

    Ruben

    Reply
  122. Deborah
    Deborah says:

    Hi. I had a dream in which a red-tailed hawk showed up inside my bedroom and let me hold it. Then I noticed it had a third eye in its chest and was carrying a snake, which it later started dismembering until it was dead. What could it possibly mean?

    Reply
  123. Celena
    Celena says:

    I had a red tail hawk with the brightest yellow talons perched on the outside of my hospital window for over an hour just staring in at me and my family. It was pretty amazing! I was admitted with double pneumonia and congestive heart failure. I’m told it was there to protect me ????

    Reply
  124. Kathy Meyer
    Kathy Meyer says:

    Thank you so much for this. I saw this hawk perched on my front gate this morning. She was very large and very beautiful. She looked right at me and I got a few pictures . Never seen one before so thanks for the information. I hope she comes back. Thx again.

    Reply
  125. Shaun
    Shaun says:

    Now i found a red tailed hawk had drowned in my pool in the back yard. I didnt get negetive energy from it at all could you give me your perspective on what it could symbolize

    Reply
  126. Doug
    Doug says:

    I have had several recent encounters with a red tail hawk. He appears on a picnic table at work. I have stood as close to him as 10’ while talking. He listens but is not afraid. I have several pictures. I have a video of him eating a rabbit in the lawn just a few feet from my building. Very impressive animal. I may be reaching for an answer as to why, but cannot dismiss the fact that this bird is wild. Why would he be so comfortable to hang out near me. I had a coworker try to get close and he ruffled his feathers and almost flew away until the coworker backed off. He has been showing up a couple times a week for a couple months. He left me breast feather today (whitish color with barred tip). Still trying to determine significance

    Reply
  127. Liz Teixeira
    Liz Teixeira says:

    A close friend of mine has identified with the red tail hawk as his spirit animal for many years. Today, while driving, he accidentally hit one and isn’t sure if it died or not. He’s really concerned that this is a sign but isn’t sure what it could mean. He feels awful about hitting the bird. Any input would be most appreciated.

    Reply
  128. Noela Bourgoin
    Noela Bourgoin says:

    I had a wonderful encounter the other day while riding a motorcycle. I go to the certain Road along the CT river because most times I ride with eagles flying above pretty cool! But this day as I was leaving there was a red tail hawk on the side of the road with a branch and its talons. As I approach the bird I slow down of course it got up and flew next to me for at least 25 ft we looked into each other’s eyes. I have friends to think this might mean something seeing I lost my man couple years ago. But I don’t know what to think I thought it was just pretty cool!

    Reply
  129. Adam costa
    Adam costa says:

    What is the message behind a red tailed hawk ripping up and eating a squirrel in my yard. He ot she left the guts and spine on a very significant easily seen tree branch in my yard. I was not home so i didnt see but i know theres a ton of red tailed hawk around my yard.

    Reply
  130. Bonnie
    Bonnie says:

    I was driving today aimlessly and suddenly in what seemed slow motion was the most beautiful red tailed hawk floating across the highway. I have never seen one before but the sun hit its belly just right for it to sparkle. The hawk slowly rolled sideways and his red tail was so beautiful. I was in awe of how beautiful it was!!!
    Last November one of my five children; my middle child, passed away suddenly which has sent my entire existence into a tailspin. My entire being has in every way been shaken to its core. I saw the beautiful hawk as some sort of message of hope to me from an angel. When I got home, I typed red tail hawk spirit animal into my computer and came up with this website. I am so grateful as the information felt like it was written just for me to get me past the pain I have been enduring.
    I have no doubt this beautiful hawk was a true spirit guide giving me the strength I need to go on. The last 11 months I’ve had to rely upon a small part of my tribe to keep me going. This tribe is slowly growing and gaining momentum. I have shared this experience and will continue to do so.
    The death of my son; he was 38, has made me more aware and appreciative of how fleeting life is and how we need to show our love on a daily basis unconditionally. Especially self love. Today I got it. I am awake and aware and feel that I with this sign can begin to love myself and share this love with others. Thank- you so much for sharing this information!!! I truly feel as though I can spread my wings and soar just like the beautiful hawk I saw today…❤ I know that’s what my son would want. He truly loved nature and all that nature encompasses!!!

    Reply
  131. Sherry
    Sherry says:

    I recently had a dream that I picked up a injured red tail hawk.I took it to a place where I was told to take her to another place where 2 young couple took me.I was told to go into this room because someone wanted to speak to me. The young couple took the red tail hawk to another room as I went into the room they told me to go into.There was young people all around this room talking in a low voice and there was a man in a jean jacket and blue jeans sitting on a stool in the middle of the room.As I stood there ,the man turned around slowly and I could see he was native ameican.He was called Red Cloud.He starred at me for a moment,the spoke and said follow me.
    So He walked out of the room as I followed him down the hall and went into another room,where the red tail hawk was sitting. Red Cloud spoke as he pointed to the red tail hawk and said She belongs to me as I belong to her. I thanked him and felt very honored.Then I woke up.

    After I woke up ,I looked up Red Cloud and found a photo of him in the early 1800s as Chief Red Cloud.
    I just wanted to share this dream.

    Reply
  132. Steven Krause
    Steven Krause says:

    Hello,
    I found today 3:30 pm, Tuesday, 10/16/2018 a dead red tailed hawk on my property located in Lake Mathews, CA. It looks like it may have feel from the sky due to high winds and weekend rain.
    What is the proper manner of their dead body?
    I would bury it on my property or dispose of it in the proper manner.
    Please advise

    Reply
  133. Belle
    Belle says:

    Hi Stacey,
    I am so excited to post this comment. Yesterday, I was standing at our back glass sliding door a few peering out at the lake, trees, and rain. I noticed in my right peripheral ahead, perched on my neighbors gate was a red tail hawk. In which, I thought was cool. Now, the distance between the two of us (the hawk and I) is about 100 feet.
    So,
    I continue to enjoy the peaceful rain, simultaneously quoting in my mind, the Lord’s Prayer, with mindfulness. By the third time I prayed The Lord’s Prayer in my mind, the hawk came flying towards me like nobody’s business! I couldn’t believe it was coming right at me and so close. So close, I thought its beak and body was headed straight through the glass door.
    I quickly moved to the right, to avoid a collision, and just in the nick of time, the hawk spread it’s wings wide open and swooped up above, to my roof top. This experience was so awe-some. I’ve never experienced this before. I had to see what the spiritual meaning of this could mean. Hubby and I are conscious of being spiritually led in all matters. Currently, we are trusting God for a financial blessing. This type of blessing request may sound all-to-familiar. However, we aren’t sure where we will be living in a month or so, how the Utility bills will be paid, what God will have us doing for Him and His people, etc. We are obedient and seek God daily, as we always have in the 20 years of our marraige. Sometimes, living like this can be overwhelming. Although God comes through every time.
    That hawk carried a presence of power and the feeling was very spiritual. I would love to hear your thoughts and insight.

    Thanks, Belle

    Reply
  134. Veronica L Compton
    Veronica L Compton says:

    Hello, I’ve had red tails as a totem in my life for over 15 years. It seems that no matter where one may be, I’ll spot it immediately. I’m curious to know if there is meaning assigned to the placement of the hawk. While I was driving yesterday, I saw one to my left perched in a tree and then moments later trouble more on the ground to my left as well. I would like to know how to interpret it. Any thoughts?

    Reply
  135. Eva Jo Chancellor
    Eva Jo Chancellor says:

    I am from the red tailed hawk clan. My great grand father was Grant Feathers, a full blood Cherokee and his wife, my great grand mother was Eva Clyde Bat, a full blood Cherokee. Both were medicine people and very powerful. My grandmother could control a tornado. I seen her do it many times. It seems to me, birds of a feather fly together. Loved your story.

    Reply
  136. Kristine
    Kristine says:

    Hello Stacey

    Thank you for your information on red tailed hawks. The red tailed hawk has been in my life very often for over a year now. Many of them live along our property line. I would say a hawk shows itself to me almost once a day no matter where I am or what state I’m visiting in New England. I want to ask you, how can I study and learn more about the red tailed hawk. I look forward to your advice.

    Reply
  137. Laurel
    Laurel says:

    I dreamed very vividly that a very large red-tail hawk came to the bird feeder on my balcony, and (without disturbing any other small birds) began feeding there as well.

    What do you think that means?

    Reply
  138. Laurel
    Laurel says:

    This past spring, during a blue moon, I dreamed of a large female snowy owl flying toward me with wings unfurled. As I watched, she perched high up on a tree branch, where several other female snowy owls were perched there. As I watched, the owls morphed into beautiful, very demur women, who shook their hair down around their shoulders, laughing & joyful, joining together, dancing in unison; and then the white barred feathers turned into beautiful white , draped, fluid, loose fitting pant suits of sorts. What struck me was their simple natural beauty & , Moreno, their bubbling joy.

    Reply
  139. Denise Mattox
    Denise Mattox says:

    A red tailed hawk has been landing on my maple tree for about two weeks now. It took me by surprise at first because it was so big! much larger than other everyday birds. I’m a very spiritual person and I listen to hear Gods voice in everything. So I was so delighted to find your blog and to read about all the amazing characteristics of this amazing animal. I look forward to reading your book.

    Reply
  140. raindrops
    raindrops says:

    I just saw a red tailed hawk flying in front of my window today – wolf moon eclipse leo in aquarius (my z sign) – and since I have had many sightings of red tailed hawks lately, I decided to check the meaning online, and I found this post.

    amazing
    just spoke to my heart

    Reply
  141. Roberto Palacios Jr
    Roberto Palacios Jr says:

    Me and my best friend saw 4 hawks sharing a field rabbit all by ourselves. What does that mean?

    Reply
  142. Pamela Barnes
    Pamela Barnes says:

    We are driving home that is about a 4 hour drive we drive many times feom damily to home. We always see hawka along the dive that is not city and count them along the way. We counted more than 12 in a half hour when usually see an average of 6 every other trip. We have are driving into a snow advisery closer to home but also have a dream for a nasty divorce to come to a good end that keep the kids from a harder life. Over abundance of hawks could be a good sign. But not sure for what.

    Reply
  143. Sarah Smith
    Sarah Smith says:

    My husband just collected the perfectly intact remains of a large red tailed hawk from a dirt road. He thinks a driver may have hit it and driven off. This seems improbable to me, unless the hawk was sick to begin with, but regardless of the cause of death of this magnificent creature, what is the most respectful way to deal with the remains? My husband wants to keep the tail feathers as a spiritual reminder. What are the ethics around this? I am reminded of how museums keep the remains of both humans and four legged creatures alike and how this raises ethical issues.

    Reply
  144. Aaron
    Aaron says:

    In my dream I looked up and saw 2 hawks soaring in place looking down at me and I realized there where 2 more and then 2 more, I counted 7.(there could’ve been more) I was happy to see them.

    Reply
  145. Georgia A Segebarth
    Georgia A Segebarth says:

    My husband just recently passed not more than a few hours after his passing I found on my front patio door multiple white feathers everywhere it looked like it had snowed and sitting on the fence was a red tail hawk no sign that he had killed anything and he let me come very close to him and look right at him and then he left what does it mean I would like to thank my husband was sending me a message because I was so devastated

    Reply
  146. Marie
    Marie says:

    I had just finished praying for a sign about getting a job. I’ve just started looking after taking a 7 year hiatus to help take care of my terminally ill Dad. After his passing I slipped into a deep depression and am just now trying to get back to reality. Anyway, I took the dog out into the yard and while walking the perimeter I asked again for a sign, and heard a hawk’s cry above me, I looked up to see 2 red tailed hawks circling above. I went to a University who’s mascot is a hawk, and my dad worked there for most of my life. So, I’m hoping this was my sign, a message to keep my eyes open and the right opportunity will present itself and I will soar. Or maybe it was dad letting me know he is looking out for me. Guess I will just have to have faith and be patient and time will tell.

    Reply
  147. Connie de
    Connie de says:

    I just Meditated by a stream as I got up I had one bald eagle and three red tag tail hawks circling me …feeling blessed

    Reply
  148. Marianne
    Marianne says:

    Thank you for this article. I have red tailed hawks in my path almost every day. I even have two nesting on my lake this year. Today one large majestic red tail swooped so closely in front of my car that it took my breath away. I could see every beautiful feather as it passed by me. A moment frozen in time.
    I have long wondered why they visit me so often. I know they bring a message, but I don’t know what it is.
    I am spooked and at the same time feel blessed.
    My family (tribe) is very important to me right now, like never before in my life.
    I also need to look in deeply and not react to all that is going in around me. The stillness I see when the hawk floats in the air, is the same stillness I want to possess in the midst of family challenges going on right now.

    Thank you for your experience.

    Marianne

    Reply
  149. Henry Cox
    Henry Cox says:

    I placed my mother to ras est on Thursday April 11th as the grave side service started a beautiful hawk perched on a large pine tree it did not move until the service was closed the hawk sounded off twice once as the opening words were spoken the second time was just before I gave the message to those who attended her home going service to this day I have never known of a hawk doing that before. My thinking was it was Mom’s way of letting me know that she was pleased with the words she heard.

    Reply
  150. Paul
    Paul says:

    For the past month of Red Hawk trying to come through my window and visits me everyday I just lost my Mom 2 years ago I don’t know if it’s a message for me awesome thankyou!

    Reply
  151. Marcie
    Marcie says:

    So fortunate to have a hawk leave me a tail feather yesterday morning. Had finally been strong enough to end a relationship and fifteen minutes later, through a walk in the yard there it was. Blessed beyond belief and thank you for your article. Spot on.

    Reply
  152. Lorie
    Lorie says:

    Thank you for the information. I have always referred to Hawks as HAWK MEDICINE. When I travel especially I notice them. Day before yesterday my husband and I heard a horrible noise. when I ran upstairs a full grown hawk had flown into the glass of my bedroom window. Somehow it landed on our deck which is about 5 ft away. It died peacefully on my deck. So much information about HAWK Totems and what the animal means in dreams etc. but I’m having a hard time understanding the message it has for me. I just keep hearing WAKE UP!

    Reply
  153. Gary Gruber
    Gary Gruber says:

    A History with Hawks

    Hawks have been following me around since the 1970’s. My first experience occurred in the nearby farming town of Mecca. I had set up by 4×5 view camera near a fence to photograph a field. I was under the dark cloth adjusting the camera. When I took the cloth off my head, there was a hawk sitting on the fence post about 4 feet from me, his eyes boldly fixed on me.

    I just stared. He stared back. I had the unmistakable feeling that something very interesting was happening but couldn’t articulate it. I can count on one hand the number of times in my life I’ve been at a loss for words, and this was one of them. I continued with my photography, and when I looked up again, he was gone

    The only other time in my life I’ve had multiple recurring phenomena was in the late 60’s when three consecutive girlfriends went out and married the next guy they met after having dated me for a while. That I understood perfectly; this is a whole bunch more esoteric.
    In the 1990’s when I started to jump out of planes, I used to enjoy one of the interesting singularities only found at Perris Valley Skydiving. Perris had thermals at about 1200 feet. If you had a big enough canopy, you could ride those thermals for 20 minutes or more, never losing altitude, until the next plane was ready to drop its load of skydivers – then you had to spiral down and land quickly. On one Saturday afternoon I was doing just that when I noticed a hawk flying with me off my right most canopy cell. As I flew left and right through the sky he duplicated my every movement. We were in sync, like I was just another giant bird in the sky. No matter how I carved through the air, he shadowed me the way Keith Richards follows the beat laid down by Charlie Watts.

    I felt some spiritual connection, something mighty powerful, but ineffable at the same time.
    In 1995 I was working in Silicon Valley and used to clock in around 3:30 am so I could work alone in a quiet environment. One morning I heard a loud, resounding thud on the window behind my desk. I turned and saw a baby hawk staring at me through the glass. I suspect he got stunned briefly when he accidentally flew into the window. I was only a few feet from him, and we gawked at each other for at least 15 minutes until I turned around for a moment, looked back, and he was gone.

    Something was trying to tell me something, but either I wasn’t listening, or I just couldn’t translate the ancient language being spoken.
    In 1999 I travelled with my family to Stigliano, Italy, a small town high up in the mountains of southern Italy. While crossing the mountaintop, both on the way in and the way out of town, a red-tailed hawk circled our car. It stayed with us for miles as we wound our way up and down the mountain.

    I don’t believe in coincidences but connecting the dots has continued to both elude and haunt me for so many moons.

    About 9 months ago while standing outside our home, I noticed a red-tailed hawk circling lazily above our house. By the time I grabbed my camera she was gone. I began to pattern her behavior and now know she (I’ve seen her flying with a baby) flies in our area around 9:30 am and 3:30 pm. Photographing single birds in flight is very difficult, and I’ve only managed to accomplish it once or twice. It took nine months of diligent effort, but I managed to photograph two males that live nearby. They had been fighting for alpha status, and one has a decidedly damaged wing. It is breathtaking to watch them volplane through the sky, effortlessly being lifted on invisible updrafts. Majestic is usually a word reserved for eagles, but my experience has taught me that hawks are also deserving of this attention.
    I keep all of these meetings nestled not-to-far-back in my memory warehouse, because they seem to be interrelated, and each time one occurs it’s a vivid reconnection with all of the previous encounters.

    Not twenty minutes ago I was fetching the mail when the baby hawk circled me and landed in one of our olive trees, again, not 15 feet from me. It’s over 100 degrees outside but this made me shiver. We played the staring game again.

    I don’t want to imbue these occurrences with anything supernatural, but they always bring to mind something I heard Mother Teresa of Calcutta say in an interview many years ago.
    She was asked what she did when she went into church to pray. “I just listen.” The interviewer than asked what God does. She replied: “He just listens too.”

    Reply
  154. Alicia mel
    Alicia mel says:

    A beautiful Red Tail startled me in the morning when I went out to the back deck to let my small dogs out. He was perched up on my deck ledge and got frightened by my screams to my dogs to come back inside.. I was terrified for them! The hawk flew/fell down to my grass and sat there with his wings spread until I got the dogs inside and I stopped screaming! lol i knew something was wrong.. you don’t get to have these close experiences often with such a beauty.. To make a long story short, I stayed in my backyard watching him for 2 hours while trying to find someone to come rescue him. I finally was able to find someone, and it wasnt someone I would expect to help me. I sent pictures of the Hawk to my Father who loves exotic birds. He said the pictures were amazing and asked if he was hurt. I told him I had assumed so, because hes not flying anywhere..I also mentioned I had been hunting for a rescuer for hours. His next response was, give me a minute, I might know someone. Sure enough, his neighbor’s best friend happens to be a Falconer. His neighbors came to my house with blankets and a crate, and rescued him. The rescuers are keeping me updated on his recovery. It turned out that his left wing was broken. Once he is rehabilitated, they are going to allow me to be apart of the release, i cannot wait for that day. He is so stunningly beautiful, I am still so mesmerized.

    Reply
  155. SHERYL
    SHERYL says:

    since 911 i have notice hawks more and more why is this..

    and I was wondering what do you see? for me

    Reply
  156. R
    R says:

    A close and powerful encounter with a beautiful red-tail hawk within minutes of leaving work early ..driving home, crying, after a very emotionally challenging situation with an intimidating co worker who has targeted me. Seems to want to exclude me from the ‘tribe’, so to speak. Puzzling and hurtful.
    This hawk lifted me.

    Reply
  157. Ashley Ward
    Ashley Ward says:

    I discovered this post while searching for the symbolism of a red tailed hawk.

    One flew over my car and along the road with me for a moment while I was listening to Finding Cleo, a CBC podcast by Connie Walker.

    I was introduced to this podcast while asking questions about my own dad’s life as an adopted indigenous boy. I’ve been feeling a pull to tell his story. But it’s a hard one to say out loud.

    The red tailed hawk flew over me as I began to question myself. I immediately recognized it as a message from a guiding spirit. I was so grateful to read this in-depth post about the symbolism of this beautiful hawk and to learn more about the message I’ve received.

    Reply

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