ACCIPITER
The three birds of this genus are relatively short-winged and long-tailed. Although Buteos have similar proportions, accipiters are easily distinguished by their flight patterns. They are agile in flight and can maneuver among tree limbs in pursuit of prey with speed. Accipiters have an easily identifiable flap-flap-glide pattern, but often soar during migration and courtship displays. It is often difficult to differentiate species within this genus because of similar plumage patterns. The Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipitor striatus) and the Cooper's Hawk (Accipiter cooperii) are often mistaken for one another.
Cooper's Hawk - Goshawk - Sharp-shinned Hawk