Ask A Scientist© Zoology Archive

name        Samuel
status      student
age         13

Question -  Are there sparrow hawks in Utah? If so, is it illegal to 
care for one while it is injured?


The Sparrow Hawk is an European bird, but you are probably talking about 
the American Kestrel hawk which is found coast to coast.  I have heard it 
incorrectly referred to a sparrow hawk so I assume this is the bird you are 
talking about.  Yes, it is found in Utah and NO!, you are not legally able 
to care for them.  If you have an injured hawk, contact a vet. or a local 
licensed naturalist or contact your state's Department of Natural 
Resources.  To have one of these birds, you have to have both a State and 
Federal permit.




Steve Sample
York High School
Elmhurst, Illinois
60126
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