8 Hawks in Indiana (With Pictures)

Hawks are some of the most impressive birds you can find in Indiana. Whether soaring high above open fields, perched on fence posts scanning for prey, or gliding through forests, these birds of prey are a vital part of the state’s ecosystem. Their sharp eyesight, powerful talons, and incredible hunting skills make them some of the most skilled predators in the sky.

Indiana is home to several hawk species, each with its own habits and habitats. The Red-tailed Hawk, one of the most common, is often seen along highways, while the Cooper’s Hawk prefers wooded areas where it chases smaller birds through dense trees. The Broad-winged Hawk makes an impressive migration each year, and the Northern Harrier is easily recognized by its low, graceful flight over open fields.

1. Red-Tailed Hawk

• Scientific name: Buteo jamaicensis
• Life span: 10-15 years
• Size: 19.7-25.6 in (50-65 cm)
• Weight: 31.8-51.5 oz (900-1460 g)
• Wingspan: 44.9-52.4 in (114-133 cm)
• Status: Least Concern
• State status: Breeding and common
• Migratory behaviour: Year-round resident; does not leave Indiana.

The Red-tailed Hawk is one of the most widespread raptors in North America, inhabiting a diverse range of environments from open fields and deserts to forests and urban areas. Its plumage varies, but typically, it displays a rich brown back contrasted by a paler underside adorned with a distinctive dark band across the belly.

The hallmark of this species is its namesake reddish tail, which is most prominent in adults. When soaring, their broad, rounded wings and short, wide tails are evident, often showcasing a dark bar on the leading edge of the underwing, known as the “patagial” mark.

This adaptable bird is frequently observed perched along highways or gracefully circling above open landscapes, a testament to its versatility across its extensive range.

In Indiana, Red-tailed Hawks exhibit adaptable nesting behaviors, choosing tall trees in woodlands, groves, or even urban areas for their nests. These nests are constructed from sticks and lined with softer materials like bark and foliage.

Both parents participate in building and maintaining the nest, which they may reuse and refurbish annually. Their adaptability to various environments, including urban settings, showcases their resilience and versatility.

The diet of Red-tailed Hawks in Indiana is diverse, reflecting their opportunistic hunting style. They primarily prey on small to medium-sized mammals such as rodents and rabbits but will also consume birds, reptiles, and carrion when available. Their keen eyesight allows them to spot prey from great distances, and they often hunt from perches or while soaring, utilizing their broad wings to glide effortlessly over open fields and forests.

Historically, Red-tailed Hawks have maintained stable populations in Indiana, benefiting from their adaptability to various habitats. Conservation efforts have focused on preserving open spaces and mature forests, which are crucial for their nesting and hunting. Public education campaigns have also helped reduce human-wildlife conflicts, ensuring that these majestic raptors continue to thrive across the state.

2. Cooper’s Hawk

• Scientific name: Accipiter cooperii
• Life span: 12 years
• Size: 14.6-15.3 in (37-39 cm)
• Weight: 7.8-14.5 oz (220-410 g)
• Wingspan: 24.4-35.4 in (62-90 cm)
• Status: Least Concern
• State status: Breeding and common
• Migratory behaviour: Primarily resident; some migrate south in fall.

Cooper’s Hawk is a medium-sized raptor commonly found throughout North America, particularly in wooded regions and increasingly in suburban areas. It presents a blue-gray back with a contrasting rusty-orange barred chest and belly. The tail is long and rounded, marked with broad dark bands, aiding in its agile flight through trees.

A distinguishing feature is its relatively large head, which projects noticeably during flight. Its red eyes in adults add to its intense gaze. Often seen darting through forests or perched silently, Cooper’s Hawk exemplifies both grace and power in its movements.

In Indiana, Cooper’s Hawks exhibit intriguing nesting behaviors. They often choose dense woodlands or forest edges for their nesting sites, constructing substantial stick nests high in the trees.

Both the male and female participate in building the nest, which is typically lined with bark flakes and greenery. These hawks have also adapted well to suburban areas, occasionally nesting in residential neighbourhoods with ample tree cover.

The diet of Cooper’s Hawks primarily consists of medium-sized birds, such as doves and pigeons, which they hunt with remarkable agility. They are known for their swift flight through dense vegetation, using surprise attacks to capture their prey. In addition to birds, they may also prey on small mammals and, less frequently, reptiles and amphibians.

Historically, Cooper’s Hawks faced declines due to habitat loss and pesticide use. However, in Indiana, their populations have rebounded, thanks in part to conservation efforts that have improved forest habitats and reduced pesticide usage. Today, they are commonly observed in both rural and urban settings, a testament to their adaptability and the success of ongoing conservation initiatives.

3. Sharp-Shinned Hawk

• Scientific name: Accipiter striatus
• Life span: 5 years
• Size: 9.4-13.4 in (24-34 cm)
• Weight: 3.1-7.7 oz (87-218 g)
• Wingspan: 16.9-22.1 in (43-56 cm)
• Status: Least Concern
• State status: Migratory and common
• Migratory behaviour: Migrates south in late fall; returns in early spring.

The Sharp-shinned Hawk is the smallest hawk in North America, favouring dense forests and wooded areas across the continent, especially during migration. It boasts a sleek appearance with a slate-gray back and wings, while its underparts are finely barred with rufous hues. The tail is notably squared with narrow, dark bands, and its legs are slender, giving rise to its name.

In flight, this hawk exhibits short, rounded wings and a swift, agile flight pattern, adeptly navigating through thick canopies in pursuit of prey. Its piercing yellow eyes and fierce demeanour belie its small stature, making it a formidable presence in its woodland habitats.

Sharp-shinned Hawks prefer nesting in dense coniferous or mixed forests, often selecting secluded areas with ample canopy cover. They construct their nests high in trees, using twigs and lining them with softer materials. These secretive raptors are known for their elusive nesting sites, making them a challenge to observe during the breeding season.

The diet of Sharp-shinned Hawks primarily consists of small birds, which they capture with remarkable agility. They are adept at navigating through dense foliage to surprise their prey, often relying on stealth and speed. Occasionally, they may also consume small mammals and insects, but birds remain their main food source.

Conservation efforts for Sharp-shinned Hawks in Indiana have included monitoring programs to track their populations, as they are sensitive to habitat changes. Maintaining forested areas with dense understory is essential for their nesting and hunting needs. Public awareness initiatives have also been implemented to promote the importance of preserving natural habitats for these elusive hawks.

4. Rough-Legged Hawk

• Scientific name: Buteo lagopus
• Life span: Up to 15 years
• Size: 18-20 in (46-51 cm)
• Weight: 1.5-3.25 lbs (680-1470g)
• Wingspan: 52-54 inches (132-137 cm)
• Status: Least Concern
• State status: Migratory and rare
• Migratory behaviour: Winter visitor; leaves Indiana by late March.

The Rough-legged Hawk breeds in the Arctic tundra but migrates south to open fields and marshes across North America during the winter months. It is aptly named for its feathered legs, which provide insulation against the cold. Plumage varies, but common morphs include a light phase with pale underparts and dark belly patches, and a dark phase that is predominantly brown.

The tail is typically white at the base with a dark terminal band. In flight, this hawk exhibits long wings with distinctive dark wrist patches on the underside, and it often hovers while hunting, showcasing its adaptability to open habitats.

In Indiana, the Rough-legged Hawk is a winter visitor, arriving from its Arctic breeding grounds as temperatures drop. During this period, it favours open fields and agricultural areas, where it can be seen perched on fence posts or hovering in search of prey. Its presence adds a touch of wild beauty to the winter landscape, offering bird enthusiasts a chance to observe this Arctic raptor up close.

The Rough-legged Hawk’s diet in Indiana primarily consists of small mammals, such as voles, mice, and shrews. It hunts by hovering in place, scanning the ground below for movement, before descending swiftly to capture its prey. This hunting technique, combined with its keen eyesight, makes it a formidable predator in the open fields it frequents during the winter months.

Conservation efforts for the Rough-legged Hawk in Indiana are minimal, as the state serves primarily as a wintering ground. However, maintaining open habitats and monitoring small mammal populations are essential to support this species during its seasonal stay. Continued research and public education can help ensure that these majestic birds continue to grace Indiana’s winter skies.

5. Northern Goshawk

• Scientific name: Accipiter gentilis
• Life span: Up to 15 years
• Size: 24-29 in (61-74 cm)
• Weight: 1.5-3 lbs (680-1360g)
• Wingspan: 45-52 in (114-132 cm)
• Status: Least Concern
• State status: Breeding and rare
• Migratory behaviour: Rare winter visitor; departs by early spring.

The Northern Goshawk is a formidable raptor inhabiting boreal and temperate forests across the Northern Hemisphere, including parts of North America and Eurasia. This large hawk displays a striking appearance with slate-gray upperparts and a finely barred grayish-white underside.

A prominent white stripe, or “eyebrow,” above its piercing red or orange eyes enhances its fierce expression. The tail is long and rounded, featuring broad dark bands. In flight, its broad wings and powerful build are evident, allowing it to maneuvers adeptly through dense forests. Known for its elusive nature, the Northern Goshawk is a symbol of wild, untamed woodlands.

Northern Goshawks are rare breeders in Indiana, favouring large, mature forests with dense canopy cover for nesting. They build substantial stick nests high in tall trees, often reusing and refurbishing them annually. These nests are typically lined with bark and greenery, providing a secure environment for raising their young. Their preference for secluded, undisturbed areas makes their nesting sites difficult to locate.

The diet of Northern Goshawks is diverse, reflecting their role as apex predators in Indiana’s forest ecosystems. They primarily hunt medium-sized birds and mammals, such as grouse, squirrels, and rabbits. Their powerful build and keen hunting skills allow them to pursue prey through dense forests, often ambushing from a concealed perch. This varied diet underscores their adaptability and importance in maintaining ecological balance.

Conservation efforts for Northern Goshawks in Indiana have focused on preserving large tracts of mature forest, which are essential for their nesting and hunting. Due to their sensitivity to habitat disturbance, maintaining undisturbed forest areas is crucial.

Monitoring programs have been established to track their populations and assess the effectiveness of conservation strategies, ensuring the continued presence of this elusive raptor in the state’s forests.

6. Red-Shouldered Hawk

• Scientific name: Buteo lineatus
• Life span: Up to 12 years
• Size: 18-20 inches (45-50 cm)
• Weight: 12-26 ounces (350-740 g)
• Wingspan: 40-48 inches (100-122 cm)
• Status: Least Concern
• State status: Breeding and less common
• Migratory behaviour: Mostly resident; some migrate south in fall.

The Red-shouldered Hawk is a medium-sized raptor prevalent in the eastern United States and along the Pacific coast. It favours mature woodlands, often near water sources. This hawk is distinguished by its rich reddish-brown shoulders and upperwing coverts, which contrast with its black-and-white checkered wings.

The underparts are adorned with warm reddish barring, and the tail displays narrow white bands against a dark backdrop. In flight, translucent crescents near the wingtips are visible, a key identification feature. Its robust build and striking coloration make the Red-shouldered Hawk a standout among forest raptors.

In Indiana, Red-shouldered Hawks prefer nesting in mature, deciduous forests, often near wetlands or rivers. They construct large stick nests high in the canopy, typically in the main fork of a tree. Both parents are involved in building the nest, which is lined with softer materials like moss and leaves. Their affinity for riparian habitats influences their nesting site selection, ensuring proximity to water sources.

The diet of Red-shouldered Hawks is varied, reflecting their opportunistic hunting strategies. They feed on small mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and occasionally birds. Their hunting technique often involves perching silently before swooping down to capture unsuspecting prey. This diverse diet allows them to thrive in the mixed habitats of Indiana.

Conservation efforts for Red-shouldered Hawks in Indiana have been directed towards preserving mature forests and wetland ecosystems. These habitats are crucial for their nesting and foraging activities. Public education initiatives have also been implemented to raise awareness about the importance of these habitats, contributing to the stability of their populations in the state.

7. Broad-Winged Hawk

• Scientific name: Buteo platypterus
• Life span: 12 years
• Size: 13.4-17.3 in (34-44 cm)
• Weight: 9.3-19.8 oz (265-560 g)
• Wingspan: 31.9-39.4 in (81-100 cm)
• Status: Least Concern
• State status: Migratory and common
• Migratory behaviour: Departs Indiana in September for Central and South America.

The Broad-winged Hawk is a small, stocky raptor that breeds in the forests of eastern North America and migrates to Central and South America for the winter. It features a brown back and a pale underside with reddish-brown barring.

The tail is short and square, marked with broad black and white bands. During migration, Broad-winged Hawks are renowned for forming large flocks, known as “kettles,” soaring together in thermal currents. Their synchronized movements and high-pitched whistles are a hallmark of the species during these seasonal journeys.

During the nesting season, it prefers secluded areas with dense canopy cover, often near water sources. Its presence is more often detected by its distinctive, high-pitched call echoing through the woods than by sight, as it tends to remain within the forest interior.

In terms of diet, the Broad-winged Hawk is an opportunistic feeder. It preys on a variety of small animals, including amphibians, reptiles, insects, and small mammals. Perching quietly on branches, it waits patiently before swooping down to capture unsuspecting prey. This varied diet reflects its adaptability and the rich biodiversity of its forested habitats.

Conservation efforts for the Broad-winged Hawk in Indiana focus on preserving large tracts of contiguous forest, which are crucial for its breeding and foraging. Monitoring programs track population trends, and public education initiatives aim to raise awareness about the importance of forest conservation. These efforts help ensure that the Broad-winged Hawk continues to thrive in Indiana’s woodlands.

8. Northern Harrier

• Scientific name: Circus hudsonius
• Life span: 5 – 7 years
• Size: 18-24 in / 45-61 cm
• Weight: 12.3-26.5 oz / 350-750 g
• Wingspan: 40-48 in / 100-122 cm
• Status: Least Concern
• State status: Migratory and common
• Migratory behaviour: Migrates south in late fall; returns in early spring.

The Northern Harrier is a slender, medium-sized raptor commonly found in open habitats such as marshes, grasslands, and fields across North America. Males, often referred to as “Gray Ghosts,” exhibit pale gray plumage, while females are larger with brown plumage and streaked underparts.

Both sexes possess a distinctive white rump patch and an owl-like facial disc that aids in sound localization. Their long wings and tail facilitate low, buoyant flight as they glide over open areas in search of prey. The Northern Harrier’s graceful flight and unique hunting style make it a captivating sight in expansive landscapes.

Northern Harriers prefer open grasslands, marshes, and wetlands for breeding, building their nests directly on the ground, concealed within dense vegetation. The female constructs a platform of sticks, grasses, and reeds, where she lays 4-6 eggs. Males may mate with multiple females, providing food while the females incubate and raise the young.

Dietarily, the Northern Harrier primarily hunts small mammals, especially voles, but it also preys on birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Its hunting strategy involves flying low over the ground, using its keen hearing and vision to locate prey before making a swift, downward strike. This methodical hunting style is both graceful and efficient, showcasing the harrier’s adaptability in various habitats.

Conservation efforts for the Northern Harrier in Indiana emphasize the preservation of wetlands and grasslands, which are vital for nesting and foraging. As these habitats face threats from development and agriculture, initiatives to protect and restore open landscapes are crucial. Public education campaigns also highlight the importance of these ecosystems, fostering community support for conservation measures that benefit the Northern Harrier and other wildlife.

Where to find Hawks in Indiana

If you want to see hawks in Indiana, you’re in luck! These birds of prey can be found throughout the state, from farmland and forests to suburban neighbourhoods. The best way to spot them is to visit open spaces with good visibility—hawks often perch on utility poles, fence posts, or tall trees, scanning for prey.

Bring a pair of binoculars and keep an eye on the sky, especially in the morning or late afternoon when they are most active. Some hawks soar high in circles, while others glide low over fields, making them easy to recognize once you know what to look for.

Here are four great places to find hawks in Indiana:

• Goose Pond Fish & Wildlife Area – A great place to see Northern Harriers gliding low over wetlands.
• Eagle Creek Park – Home to Red-tailed Hawks, Cooper’s Hawks, and migrating Broad-winged Hawks.
• Indiana Dunes State Park – A prime spot for seeing migrating hawks along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
• Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge – Offers a mix of open fields and forests where multiple hawk species hunt.

No matter where you go, keep looking up—hawks are always nearby, waiting for the perfect moment to strike!

Conclusion

Hawks play a vital role in Indiana’s ecosystems, keeping rodent and bird populations balanced while adding to the state’s natural beauty. Whether soaring high or perched in quiet observation, these raptors are a thrilling sight. Protecting their habitats ensures future generations can continue to admire these powerful birds in the wild.