What color is the cere on a hawk?

The cere of a hawk is typically waxy yellow, gray, or green, depending on the species and individual characteristics. The cere is the fleshy, often smooth area located at the base of the beak, and it serves various functions, including housing the nostrils and playing a role in mating displays and identification.

The waxy texture and varied colors of the cere can be crucial for species identification, as different hawk species exhibit different cere colors. For example, many species of hawks, such as red-tailed hawks, have a yellow cere, which becomes more evident when they are mature and in breeding condition. Understanding the characteristics of the cere can help falconers assess the health and maturity of the bird they are working with.