In most hawk species, male and female determination is primarily based on:

In many hawk species, the determination of male and female is often based on the size difference between the sexes, a phenomenon known as sexual dimorphism. Generally, female hawks are larger than their male counterparts. This difference in size can be attributed to various reasons, including reproductive roles, where larger females may have more space to carry and develop eggs. Additionally, the increased size may allow females to take on larger prey, which can be beneficial for raising young. In these species, the male's smaller size generally allows for greater agility and speed, making it advantageous for hunting smaller, more agile prey. Thus, recognizing the larger size of females is crucial for understanding the basic differences between male and female hawks in terms of identification and behavioral ecology.