Which hawk is most likely to hunt waterfowl near open water?

The Peregrine falcon is particularly adept at hunting waterfowl near open water because of its impressive speed and agility. Known for its aerial prowess, the Peregrine falcon can dive at speeds exceeding 200 mph, making it one of the fastest animals on the planet. This speed allows it to surprise and capture birds in flight, including waterfowl that may be present near lakes, rivers, or marshes.

In contrast, while the American kestrel is a skilled hunter, it typically focuses on smaller prey like insects and small birds rather than larger waterfowl. The Sharp-shinned hawk generally hunts smaller birds in wooded areas and is less associated with open water environments. The Red-tailed hawk, on the other hand, prefers to hunt on open land and often targets small mammals rather than specializing in hunting over water. Each of these species has specific hunting strategies and prey preferences that reflect their adaptations, but the abilities of the Peregrine falcon make it the most suitable choice for hunting waterfowl near open water.