Hi Peggy,

I don't know about them being in prophecy.  Many cultures consider them messengers  etc.  It can depend on where they are at in relation to you.  For example you saw
the hawk to the side of you.  That is more of a protective guiding stance.  If it had flown in front of you low and swooping by then that is a warning.  As for being in populated areas.
We are ever encroaching on wildlife with our constant building and cutting down of trees.  Could be the hawk was having to search further then normal for food.

YSIC,
Cherise