sharp-shinned hawk

noun

\ ˈshärp-ˈshind-

Definition of sharp-shinned hawk

: a common widely distributed American accipiter (Accipiter striatus) that is grayish above, has a chestnut breast, short rounded wings, and a tail with a notched or square tip when folded

— called also sharp-shin

Examples of sharp-shinned hawk in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

All accipiters, including the sharp-shinned hawk, and its close relative the Cooper’s hawk, have distinctive flight patterns that are useful in identifying them, even at a distance. — Dave Taft, New York Times, "Little Terror of the Flyway," 19 Oct. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'sharp-shinned hawk.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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