redshouldered

Redshouldered refers to a specific coloration pattern found in various animals, most notably birds. The term most commonly identifies the Red-shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus), a medium-sized bird of prey native to North America. This hawk is characterized by reddish barring on its breast and belly, and reddish-brown shoulders, which are visible during flight and when perched. Its call is a distinctive series of loud, piercing whistles.

Beyond the hawk, the term "redshouldered" can be used descriptively for other species. For example, some lizards or small mammals might exhibit reddish patches on their shoulder region, leading to a similar informal designation. The exact meaning of "redshouldered" depends on the context and the specific organism being discussed, but the association with the Red-shouldered Hawk is the most prevalent. This coloration serves various purposes in the animal kingdom, including camouflage, species recognition, and potentially in courtship displays.