Where do Red-tailed Hawks sometimes nest aside from trees?

Red-tailed Hawks are known for their adaptability in nesting locations, which can include a variety of structures aside from trees. Cliffs provide a suitable high vantage point that offers safety from predators and access to prey. These birds often prefer nesting in areas that allow them to survey their territory, and cliffs enable this. The ledges and outcroppings of cliffs serve as perfect nesting sites due to their elevation and the minimal disturbance from terrestrial predators.

Nesting on the ground, in shrubs, or under bridges, while possible in some bird species, is not typical for Red-tailed Hawks, as these environments do not provide the same level of safety and observational advantages that cliffs do. Consequently, cliffs stand out as a notable alternative nesting site for these hawks, aligning well with their ecological needs and behavioral patterns.