Are you looking for information on the captivating hawks found in Ohio? Look no further! This guide’ll take you on a thrilling journey through the diverse world of hawks that call Ohio home. From their majestic presence to their incredible hunting skills, hawks never fail to capture our attention and admiration. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or a nature enthusiast, exploring Ohio’s stunning variety of hawks is an experience like no other.
Ohio has a rich habitat that attracts a wide range of hawk species. Each species has unique characteristics and captivating behaviors, from the graceful Red-tailed Hawk to the fierce Cooper’s Hawk. Whether you’re interested in their incredible aerial acrobatics or striking plumage, hawks are a sight to behold.
So, if you’re ready to embark on an adventure and discover the remarkable hawks of Ohio, join us as we explore these incredible birds of prey. We’ll delve into their physical traits, nesting habits, favorite hunting grounds, and more. Get ready to be captivated by the beauty and prowess of these magnificent creatures.
Common Types of Hawks in Ohio
1. Red-Shouldered Hawk
The Red-shouldered Hawk is known for its striking appearance. It has a reddish-brown back and wings, with distinct barring on its underparts. Its shoulders are marked with vibrant reddish patches, which give this species its name. The head is adorned with a dark crown and a pale throat.
- Length: 16-24 inches
- Weight: Adults typically weigh between 1.2 to 2.2 pounds
- Wingspan: With an impressive wingspan of about 37-43 inches, these hawks display great agility in flight.
- Scientific name: Buteo lineatus.
Habitat & Range:
Red-shouldered Hawks prefer to inhabit deciduous forests, wooded swamps, and riparian areas. In Ohio, they can be found throughout the state, especially in the southern and central regions.
Diet & Feeding Habits:
These hawks are opportunistic hunters, primarily feeding on small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds. Their diet may also include snakes, crayfish, and insects. They soar above the treetops, searching for prey, and will swoop down to catch their meals.
Breeding Habits & Nesting Sites:
Red-shouldered Hawks are monogamous and form long-term pair bonds. They build their nests in tall trees, often near water sources. The nests are constructed with sticks and lined with softer materials. These hawks are known to reuse their nests in subsequent breeding seasons.
Migration Patterns & Where To Find Them:
While some Red-shouldered Hawks are year-round residents in Ohio, others migrate to the southern United States during winter. They can be spotted along woodland edges, open fields, and wetland areas during migration.
If you want to observe Red-shouldered Hawks in Ohio, head to wooded areas near rivers, streams, and marshes. Look for their usual perches in trees, from where they scan the surroundings for potential prey.
2. Red-Tailed Hawk
Red-tailed Hawks have a distinct appearance. They showcase rich, brownish plumage on their back and wings, while their underparts are pale with a belly that may be streaked or banded. Their rusty-red tail is The most notable characteristic, which becomes more apparent when they soar.
- Length: Red-tailed Hawks typically measure around 18-26 inches in length.
- Weight: These hawks have an average weight ranging from 2 to 4 pounds.
- Wingspan: With an impressive wingspan of about 43-56 inches, they dominate the skies with their soaring flights.
- Scientific name: Buteo jamaicensis.
Habitat & Range:
These hawks are highly adaptable and can be found in various habitats across Ohio. They thrive in open areas such as grasslands, agricultural fields, and wooded edges. Red-tailed Hawks are prevalent throughout the state and can be spotted from urban areas to rural landscapes.
Diet & Feeding Habits:
Red-tailed Hawks are formidable hunters with a diverse diet. They primarily feed on small mammals like rodents, rabbits, and squirrels. They also consume birds, reptiles, amphibians, and occasionally carrion. These hawks soar above their hunting grounds, using their keen eyesight to locate prey before swooping to capture it.
Breeding Habits & Nesting Sites:
During the breeding season, Red-tailed Hawks form monogamous pairs. They construct large nests made of sticks, often placed high in trees. The nests are often reused and can become substantial structures over time. These hawks protect their nesting territories and engage in elaborate courtship displays.
Migration Patterns & Where To Find Them:
While some Red-tailed Hawks are year-round residents in Ohio, others migrate to southern regions during the winter. During migration, they can be observed along open fields, perched on fence posts, or soaring high in the sky. Look for them near suitable hunting grounds or along the edges of forests.
3. Sharp-Shinned Hawk
Sharp-Shinned Hawks have a compact body structure with short, rounded wings and a long, narrow tail. They showcase a grayish-brown plumage on their back, while their underparts are streaked with reddish-brown bars. These hawks have distinct red eyes and yellow legs, adding to their striking appearance.
- Length: Sharp-Shinned Hawks measure around 10-14 inches, making them relatively small compared to other hawk species.
- Weight: They have a weight ranging from 4 to 8 ounces, making them lightweight and agile.
- Wingspan: With a wingspan of approximately 20-27 inches, they possess slender and agile wings that aid in their swift flight.
- Scientific name: Accipiter striatus.
Habitat & Range:
Sharp-Shinned Hawks are found in various habitats across Ohio. They prefer forested areas, woodlands, and suburban regions. These hawks are adaptable and can even be observed in urban settings. Look for them near bird feeders or in areas with abundant prey populations.
Diet & Feeding Habits:
As agile hunters, Sharp-Shinned Hawks primarily feed on small birds, such as sparrows, finches, and other songbirds. They are known for their impressive aerial acrobatics, swiftly maneuvering through trees and shrubs to surprise their prey. Their hunting strategy involves quick and precise strikes, ensuring a successful capture.
Breeding Habits & Nesting Sites:
During the breeding season, Sharp-Shinned Hawks form monogamous pairs. They construct nests made of sticks and twigs in dense trees. The female leads are nest-building, while the male provides the necessary materials. Their nests are well-hidden and provide a secure environment for raising their young.
Migration Patterns & Where To Find Them:
Sharp-Shinned Hawks are known for their migratory behavior in Ohio. They breed in the northern regions and migrate to the southern parts of the state or even beyond during winter. Look for them along forested areas, woodland edges, or perched on treetops, where they can survey their surroundings for potential prey.
4. Cooper’s Hawk
Cooper’s Hawks display a slate-gray to bluish-gray color on their back, with a lighter underbelly adorned with reddish-brown bars. They have rounded wings and a long, banded tail. These hawks’ striking red eyes and yellow legs complement their elegant appearance.
- Length: Cooper’s Hawks measure around 14-20 inches, making them a medium-sized hawk species.
- Weight: They have an average weight ranging from 9 to 20 ounces, which gives them a solid presence.
- Wingspan: With a wingspan of approximately 24-36 inches, they possess broad wings that aid in their swift flight.
- Scientific name: Accipiter cooperii.
Habitat & Range:
Cooper’s Hawks are commonly found in various habitats throughout Ohio, including woodlands, forests, and even suburban areas. They are adaptable to both rural and urban environments. Look for them perched on tall trees or soaring above the canopy.
Diet & Feeding Habits: As skilled hunters, Cooper’s Hawks primarily prey on medium-sized birds, such as mourning doves, pigeons, and other songbirds. They are agile and swift fliers, using their sharp talons to capture their prey in flight. These hawks employ stealth and surprise tactics to ensure a successful hunt.
Breeding Habits & Nesting Sites:
Hawks form monogamous pairs during the breeding season. They construct nests made of sticks and twigs, usually high in trees. The female leads are nest-building, while the male provides the necessary materials. Their nests are often situated near forest edges or in dense woodland areas.
Migration Patterns & Where To Find Them:
Cooper’s Hawks are year-round residents in Ohio, although some individuals may undertake short-distance migrations. They can be found throughout the state, particularly in areas with abundant prey populations and suitable nesting sites. Look for them in woodlands, parks, and backyards with bird feeders attracting small birds.
5. Broad-Winged Hawk
Broad-Winged Hawks exhibit a mix of brown and white plumage. They have a brown back with noticeable white underparts and distinct dark bands on their tail. These hawks feature broad wings and a robust build, while adults display a reddish-brown hue on their chests. Their eyes are bright yellow, adding to their captivating appearance.
- Length: Broad-Winged Hawks measure around 13-17 inches, making them medium-sized hawk species.
- Weight: They have an average weight ranging from 9 to 20 ounces, giving them a solid presence in the avian world.
- Wingspan: With a wingspan of approximately 31-39 inches, they display broad wings that enable agile flight.
- Scientific name: Buteo platypterus.
Habitat & Range:
Broad-Winged Hawks can be found in various forested habitats across Ohio. They prefer deciduous and mixed woodlands, forest edges, and open areas near water sources. These hawks can also be seen during migration, as they pass through Ohio in large numbers.
Diet & Feeding Habits:
Broad-Winged Hawks primarily feed on small mammals, such as mice, voles, and chipmunks. They may also consume reptiles, amphibians, and insects. These hawks use their keen eyesight to spot prey from perches, then swoop down to capture it with their sharp talons. They are known for their soaring flight patterns as they search for food.
Breeding Habits & Nesting Sites:
Broad-Winged Hawks form monogamous pairs during the breeding season. They construct nests made of sticks and twigs, often located in the canopy of tall trees. The female takes the lead in nest-building while the male gathers materials. They prefer nesting sites within mature forests with a dense canopy cover.
Migration Patterns & Where To Find Them:
Broad-Winged Hawks are known for their unusual migratory behavior. They undertake long-distance migrations, traveling in ” kettles ” flocks as they move south for the winter. During migration, they can be observed in large numbers in Ohio’s skies, particularly along ridges and river valleys. Look for them during the fall season as they pass through the state.
6. Swainson’s Hawk
Swainson’s Hawks feature a combination of dark and light plumage. They have a brown back and wings, complemented by a distinctive white or pale underbelly. Their head is pale, with a dark eye patch and a hooked beak. Adults display a reddish-brown or cinnamon-colored chest. Their long, slender wings and streamlined body contribute to their graceful appearance in flight.
- Length: Swainson’s Hawks measure 18-22 inches, making them a medium-sized hawk species.
- Weight: They have an average weight ranging from 1.5 to 3 pounds, giving them a substantial presence in the avian world.
- Wingspan: With an approximately 48-56 inches wingspan, they showcase impressive wings that aid in their aerial prowess.
- Scientific name: Buteo swainsoni
Habitat & Range:
Swainson’s Hawks can be found in various habitats across Ohio. They prefer open areas such as grasslands, agricultural fields, and prairies. These hawks migrate through the state during spring and fall, utilizing different habitats depending on the season.
Diet & Feeding Habits:
Swainson’s Hawks have a diverse diet primarily consisting of small mammals, including rodents like mice and voles. They also feed on insects, reptiles, amphibians, and occasionally birds. These hawks employ soaring and hovering techniques to spot prey from elevated perches, then swoop down to capture it with their sharp talons.
Breeding Habits & Nesting Sites:
Swainson’s Hawks form monogamous pairs during the breeding season. They construct nests made of sticks, usually situated in trees or on cliff ledges. These hawks prefer nesting sites in open habitats, such as trees along the edges of fields or utility poles. They are known for their elaborate courtship displays involving aerial acrobatics and vocalizations.
Migration Patterns & Where To Find Them:
Swainson’s Hawks undertake remarkable long-distance migrations. They breed in North America and then travel to South America for the winter, covering thousands of miles. During migration, they can be observed in Ohio’s skies as they pass through the state. Look for them in open areas and agricultural fields during their migration seasons.
7. Northern Goshawk
Northern Goshawks are large raptors with a robust build. They have a slate-gray or dark brown back, complemented by a lighter gray or white underbelly. Adults feature bold white or light-gray eyebrows and piercing red eyes. Their beaks are hooked and sharp, ideal for capturing prey. Juvenile Northern Goshawks have a brownish plumage with streaks and spots.
- Length: Northern Goshawks are around 20-26 inches long, making them a sizable hawk species.
- Weight: They have an average weight ranging from 1.5 to 3 pounds, giving them a solid presence in the avian kingdom.
- Wingspan: With a wingspan of approximately 40-46 inches, they possess broad wings that enable agile flight.
- Scientific name: Accipiter gentilis.
Habitat & Range:
These majestic hawks inhabit a range of forested habitats in Ohio. They prefer mature forests, including coniferous and mixed woodlands. Northern Goshawks can be found in deciduous and evergreen forests as long as there is sufficient cover for hunting. They are territorial birds and require extensive forest areas to meet their habitat needs.
Diet & Feeding Habits:
Northern Goshawks are formidable hunters, primarily preying on medium-sized birds and mammals. Their diet consists of species such as rabbits, squirrels, grouse, and other birds. They are adept at maneuvering through dense forest canopies to surprise and capture their prey. These hawks employ a combination of speed and agility to chase down their targets.
Breeding Habits & Nesting Sites:
Northern Goshawks are monogamous and establish breeding territories in their forested habitats. They construct large stick nests, usually situated high in mature trees. These nests are often reused and can reach significant sizes over time. The female takes the primary role in incubating the eggs, while the male provides food for both the female and the hatchlings.
Migration Patterns & Where To Find Them:
Northern Goshawks are generally non-migratory birds, meaning they stay within their established territories throughout the year. In Ohio, they can be found in suitable forested areas across the state. Look for them in mature forests with dense canopies, especially with abundant prey species.
8. Northern Harrier
Northern Harriers display sexual dimorphism, with males and females exhibiting distinct plumage characteristics. Males have a pale gray body with black wingtips and a white rump. Females, on the other hand, have a brown-mottled appearance, aiding in camouflage during nesting. Both genders have a distinct white patch on their rumps, which becomes visible during flight.
- Length: Northern Harriers measure 18-24 inches, making them medium-sized hawk species.
- Weight: Their average weight ranges from 10 to 26 ounces, giving them a relatively lightweight build.
- Wingspan: With a wingspan of approximately 40-48 inches, they possess long, narrow wings that aid their hunting techniques.
- Scientific name: Circus Hudsonius.
Habitat & Range:
Northern Harriers are commonly found in open habitats such as marshes, wetlands, grasslands, and agricultural fields. They can be spotted in these diverse habitats in Ohio, where they utilize their low-flight and keen hunting skills to locate prey. They prefer areas with tall grasses or low vegetation, as it provides cover for their hunting strategies.
Diet & Feeding Habits:
These hawks primarily feed on small mammals, such as mice, voles, and rabbits. They are known for their unique hunting behavior, which involves low, slow flight over the ground as they listen and watch for prey movements. With their exceptional hearing and vision, they can detect the slightest movements of their quarry. Once prey is spotted, they dive swiftly and capture it with their sharp talons.
Breeding Habits & Nesting Sites:
Northern Harriers typically breed in open grassy habitats. The female constructs a nest on the ground or in a low shrub, using grasses, sticks, and other vegetation. They are monogamous birds and engage in elaborate courtship displays, which involve aerial acrobatics and food-sharing rituals. The female leads the egg incubation, while the male provides food for her and the chicks.
Migration Patterns & Where To Find Them:
Northern Harriers are migratory birds, with some individuals spending their breeding season in Ohio before migrating to warmer regions for the winter. During migration, they can be spotted in various habitats, including coastal areas, grasslands, and wetlands. Look for these hawks soaring low over the landscape, searching for prey, or performing their characteristic hunting flights.
9. Rough-legged Hawk
Rough-legged Hawks exhibit striking plumage with variations between light and dark morphs. Light morph individuals have pale head, breast, and underparts, while their wings display a combination of dark and light patches. Dark morph birds, on the other hand, have darker overall plumage with contrasting light patches on the underwings. Both morphs feature a distinct dark belly band, which helps identify them in flight.
- Length: Rough-legged Hawks measure 18-24 inches, making them medium-sized hawk species.
- Weight: They have an average weight ranging from 2.2 to 3.6 pounds, giving them moderate weight for size.
- Wingspan: With a wingspan of approximately 52-56 inches, they possess broad wings that aid their soaring flight.
- Scientific name: Buteo lagopus.
Habitat & Range:
During winter, Rough-legged Hawks can be found in open habitats such as grasslands, agricultural fields, and marshes. In Ohio, they are commonly observed in these areas where they search for prey. They prefer habitats with expansive open spaces where they can hover and scan the ground below for their next meal.
Diet & Feeding Habits:
The primary diet of Rough-legged Hawks consists of small mammals, particularly rodents like mice and voles. They are exceptional hunters, combining soaring flight, hovering, and perching to spot their prey. Once a suitable target is located, they precisely dive down and grab their prey using their sharp talons.
Breeding Habits & Nesting Sites:
Rough-legged Hawks breed in the Arctic tundra regions and migrate extensively to their wintering grounds, including Ohio. They construct nests on cliffs or trees using twigs, grasses, and feathers. These hawks are monogamous during the breeding season and engage in elaborate courtship displays, including aerial acrobatics and vocalizations.
Migration Patterns & Where To Find Them:
Rough-legged Hawks are migratory birds, with Ohio as a temporary wintering ground for them. During the winter, they can be observed in various parts of the state, particularly in open areas with suitable hunting grounds. Look for them perched on poles or in flight, scanning the ground for their next meal.
10. Harris’s Hawk
Harris’s Hawks exhibit a striking appearance characterized by a unique combination of colors. Their plumage features dark brown to black wings and back, while their chest and underparts showcase various shades of chestnut. Notably, these hawks have bold reddish-brown shoulders and legs, which add to their distinctive and eye-catching appearance.
- Length: Harris’s Hawks are approximately 18-25 inches long, making them a medium-sized hawk species.
- Weight: They have an average weight ranging from 1.5 to 3 pounds, giving them moderate weight for size.
- Wingspan: With a wingspan of approximately 40-47 inches, they possess broad wings that enable agile flight and maneuverability.
- Scientific name: Parabuteo unicinctus.
Habitat & Range:
Although Harris’s Hawks are native to the southwestern United States and parts of Mexico, they have been observed in Ohio as rare visitors. These hawks typically inhabit arid and semi-arid regions such as deserts, savannas, and grasslands. Adaptability allows them to thrive in diverse habitats, including urban areas and agricultural landscapes.
Diet & Feeding Habits:
Harris’s Hawks are versatile hunters with a varied diet. Their primary food source includes small mammals like rabbits, squirrels, and rodents. They also consume birds, reptiles, and insects. What sets them apart from other hawk species is their unique hunting behavior. They are known to engage in cooperative hunting, where multiple hawks work together to capture prey. This cooperative nature makes them stand out among other raptors.
Breeding Habits & Nesting Sites:
Harris’s Hawks are social birds known for their strong family bonds. They form breeding pairs and often live and hunt in family groups called “packs” or “mobs.” These hawks build their nests using sticks, branches, and twigs, usually in trees or tall cacti. Their breeding season varies depending on the region but typically occurs during spring and summer.
Migration Patterns & Where To Find Them:
While Harris’s Hawks are not permanent residents of Ohio, occasional sightings of these magnificent birds have been reported. They exhibit some migration within their native range, seeking good feeding grounds and breeding sites. If you’re lucky, you may spot a Harris’s Hawk soaring through the Ohio skies or perched on a tree or utility pole.
Conclusion
Ohio is home to a diverse array of captivating hawk species that never cease to amaze bird enthusiasts like myself. From the majestic Red-Shouldered Hawk to the agile Cooper’s Hawk, each species brings unique characteristics and beauty to the state’s skies.
Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or appreciate the wonders of nature, exploring the world of hawks in Ohio is a thrilling experience. So, grab your binoculars, head out to the open spaces, and keep your eyes peeled for these incredible birds of prey.
Happy birdwatching!
