How would I write a bird call in my story?

Question

I writing a story. How would I write a hawk's cry.

Like from the sky, so my character would notice that it's up there.

Answer 1

I would describe the hawk's cry rather than try to write about what is sounds like. Maybe something like "the hawk's brilliant cry awakened the senses of *insert character's name*"

Something along those lines would be appropriate.

Answer 2

Mushy has the clue.

It sounds like this will be a descriptive piece anyway, so describe the action and reaction rather than the actual sound, IE:
Caw Caw, Screech, or other less understandable expressions that truly are best when "heard"

"From my position on the path, the sky was obscured by the forest overgrowth. I heard, but couldn't see, a Hawk crying out, perhaps searching for, or discovering its next meal."

Etc. Etc. Etc.

The idea isn't to create the "call" in words. It's to offer an image, allowing the reader to create the "call" in the mind.

Engage the audience, don't "push" them through your story.

Good Luck
Steven Wolf

Answer 3

I believe a hawk's cry is written as "Skreeeeeeee".

The hawk shattered it's otherwise silent descent with a piercing "Skreeeeeee" causing the long ears of the rabbit to momentarily bolt upright, just before disappearing under the nearest bush.

Answer 4

"Caw caw caw"