Swainson’s Hawk Use of Utility Poles and Similar Structures as Nest Sites

We documented several examples of Swainson’s Hawks (Buteo swainsoni) using utility poles and other powerline structures as nest platforms in the Central Valley. This behavior, rarely documented elsewhere in the species breeding range, had not previously been reported in California. We characterized the habitats near these sites, the type of structure used, and the difficulties associated with use of these structures. We also provide some recommendations to reduce the risks associated with nesting on these sorts of structures.