How many subspecies of Red-tailed Hawks have been described in North America?

The described subspecies of Red-tailed Hawks in North America is recognized as being up to 14. This number reflects the various regional variations that have been observed in this species due to adaptations to different habitats and climates across the continent. Red-tailed Hawks show significant diversity in coloration, size, and other characteristics, which leads ornithologists to classify them into these distinct subspecies. The specific identification of each subspecies is aided by factors such as geographic distribution and morphological traits, providing a deeper understanding of the biodiversity of this raptor.