9 Hawks in Colorado

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Colorado, an array of majestic hawks graces the skies, captivating both nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike. With their impressive wingspans, keen hunting skills, and breathtaking aerial displays, these raptors hold a special place in the state’s wildlife.

Join us as we delve into the world of Colorado’s hawks, exploring their diversity, behavior, and the crucial role they play in the region’s ecosystems.

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

The Red-Tailed Hawk, a common bird in Colorado year-round, has a wide range spanning from Panama to Alaska and across North America. Recognizable by its short, red tail, brown back, and pale underside, it is the second largest hawk in Colorado.

With 14 subspecies in North America, including the Colorado variant, this adaptable species thrives in various habitats, favouring woodlands and woodland edges.

Red-Tailed Hawks in Colorado build large stick nests, called eyries, in the branches of tall trees or on cliffs. These sturdy homes serve as their breeding grounds, where they raise their young with unwavering dedication, fostering a sense of familial unity.

A versatile predator, the Red-Tailed Hawk displays a diverse palate. Its menu ranges from small mammals like rodents and rabbits to birds and reptiles. With exceptional hunting skills and razor-sharp talons, it swoops down with astonishing precision, securing its sustenance and reaffirming its position as an apex predator.

Red-Tailed Hawks in Colorado have experienced a remarkable conservation success story. Once facing threats from habitat loss and persecution, their populations have rebounded due to protective measures and conservation efforts.

These resilient birds now thrive in various habitats across the state, serving as a testament to the power of conservation in preserving nature’s magnificent tapestry.

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

The Cooper’s Hawk, a medium-sized bird found across North America and Mexico, boasts remarkable agility and flying prowess. With striking features, including pale orangy barring on the chest, it is often mistaken for Sharp-Shinned Hawks.

These intelligent predators are stealthy hunters, occasionally drawing ire from homeowners due to their tendency to lurk near bird feeders, seeking easy prey rather than the feeder’s contents.

In the vibrant forests of Colorado, the Cooper’s Hawk creates cozy nests made of twigs and lined with soft materials. With meticulous care, they raise their young, nurturing a sense of familial unity amidst the towering trees, crafting a tapestry of life in the lush wilderness.

The Cooper’s Hawk, a cunning forest dweller, possesses remarkable agility to chase and capture its prey. It feasts on a diverse menu, targeting small birds and mammals with astonishing precision. With keen eyes and nimble wings, it becomes a graceful predator, epitomizing the art of pursuit in the wild.

The Cooper’s Hawk has witnessed a storied conservation history in Colorado. Once facing population declines due to habitat loss and pesticide use, concerted efforts have led to a resurgence in their numbers. Conservation initiatives, including habitat preservation and public awareness, have provided a lifeline to these remarkable avians, securing a harmonious future in Colorado’s wild realms.

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

The Sharp-Shinned Hawk, Colorado’s and the United States’ smallest hawk, dons a greyish back and a vibrant orangy chest, akin to its Cooper’s Hawk counterpart. Distinguishing features include distinctive tail stripes.

With a secretive nature and petite stature, these elusive hawks find solace amidst forested realms, skilfully concealing themselves during the nesting season.

Nestled among the scenic landscapes of Colorado, the Sharp-Shinned Hawk displays a secretive yet meticulous nesting behaviour. They construct compact nests in the sheltered canopies of forests, carefully weaving twigs and soft materials into a cozy abode, where they nurture their young with tender care, creating a haven of familial love.

With unmatched agility and precision, the Sharp-Shinned Hawk is an adept hunter, specializing in capturing small birds and mammals. With a menu consisting of feathered delicacies and elusive prey, it navigates the intricate dance of pursuit, showcasing its prowess as a skilled avian predator.

Throughout Colorado’s history, efforts to conserve the Sharp-Shinned Hawk and its habitat have been pivotal. These magnificent raptors have faced challenges from habitat loss and human interference. Conservation initiatives, including protected areas and habitat restoration, have fostered their recovery, ensuring a harmonious coexistence between humans and these majestic hunters of the sky.

4. 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

During the spring and summer breeding season, the Broad-Winged Hawk graces the skies of Colorado, captivating birders with its presence. However, it is during the awe-inspiring fall migration when these hawks truly mesmerize, forming massive flocks numbering in the thousands as they journey to South America.

With a dark brown body adorned by a pale whitish belly adorned with horizontal bars, the Broad-Winged Hawk is a sight to behold.

Amidst the picturesque landscapes of Colorado, the Broad-Winged Hawk showcases a captivating nesting behaviour. They construct sturdy nests nestled in the towering trees, fashioning a secure haven where they raise their young with unwavering dedication, embracing the joys and challenges of parenthood in the wild.

The Broad-Winged Hawk exhibits a versatile palate, preying on small mammals, reptiles, and occasionally even amphibians. With keen eyesight and swift aerial manoeuvres, they become adept hunters, swooping down with precision to secure their next meal, showcasing their prowess as skilled predators of the sky.

Colorado has witnessed dedicated conservation efforts to protect the Broad-Winged Hawk and its habitat. Through habitat preservation, public education, and research, their populations have been safeguarded. This collective commitment ensures the continuation of their captivating presence, fostering a harmonious balance between humans and this majestic species.

5. 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

The Rough-Legged Hawk, an extraordinary avian resident of the high Arctic, embarks on an annual winter pilgrimage to Colorado. Sporting a predominantly brown plumage, it showcases a striking contrast with a lighter-coloured head and scattered dark spots adorning its body.

What sets the Rough-Legged Hawk apart is its distinguishing feature: feathered legs that extend all the way down to the toes. This unique adaptation serves as insulation against the harsh Arctic climate, enabling them to thrive in their remote breeding range.

Nestled amidst the rugged landscapes of Colorado, the Rough-Legged Hawk exhibits a tenacious nesting behaviour. They construct their lofty eyries on cliffs or in tall trees, creating secure sanctuaries for their young. With unwavering dedication, they embrace the challenges of parenthood, nurturing their offspring with fierce protection and tender care.

The Rough-Legged Hawk, a skilled hunter of the skies, possesses a diverse diet. From small mammals like voles and mice to birds and even reptiles, they exhibit versatility in their foraging habits. With calculated precision, they soar above the Colorado wilderness, swooping down to secure their next meal, embodying the artistry of aerial predation.

Colorado’s conservation efforts have played a vital role in the preservation of the Rough-Legged Hawk. Through habitat protection, research, and public education, their populations have been safeguarded.

This collective dedication ensures the harmonious coexistence of humans and these magnificent raptors, preserving the awe-inspiring beauty of Colorado’s natural heritage.

6. 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

The Northern Goshawk, akin to the Cooper’s Hawk and Sharp-Shinned Hawk, showcases remarkable agility within forested realms. These secretive birds skilfully navigate the depths of the woods, evading prying eyes.

In Colorado, the Rough-Legged Hawk resides year-round in the northern region and sporadically in the south during non-breeding periods. With a dark grey upper body, adorned with black stripes, and lighter gray underparts, they emanate an air of natural elegance

Within the enchanting landscapes of Colorado, the Northern Goshawk displays a captivating nesting behaviour. They craft their lofty nests amidst the forest’s embrace, weaving a tapestry of twigs and foliage to create a haven for their young. With firm dedication, they nurture their offspring, fostering a bond woven with love and protective instincts.

The Northern Goshawk, a true forest predator, possesses a diverse and formidable diet. Their menu includes a range of prey, from small mammals like squirrels and rabbits to birds and even reptiles. With keen eyesight and swift flight, they unleash their hunting prowess, engaging in a captivating dance of predator and prey amidst the woodland canopy.

Colorado’s conservation endeavours have played a pivotal role in safeguarding the Northern Goshawk. Through habitat preservation, scientific research, and public awareness, their populations have been protected. These efforts serve as a testament to our shared responsibility in preserving the majestic beauty of these magnificent raptors for generations to come.

7. Swainson’s Hawk

• Scientific name: Buteo swainsoni
• Life span: Up to 15 years
• Size: 18-22 inches (46-56 cm)
• Weight: 1.4-2.4 pounds (650-1,100 g)
• Wingspan: 47-59 inches (119-150 cm)
• Status: Least Concern

The Swainson’s Hawk, a migratory bird, covers a vast geographical range extending from North America to South America. With a striking appearance, featuring a brownish body, white underparts, and a distinctive dark bib, they grace the skies with elegance. During migration, these hawks can travel impressive distances, reaching up to 12,000 miles round trip.

Amidst Colorado’s captivating landscapes, the Swainson’s Hawk displays an enchanting nesting behaviour. They construct their nests atop sturdy branches, forming a cozy sanctuary for their young. With tender care and unwavering devotion, they embrace the joys and challenges of parenthood, fostering a legacy of family unity in the boundless sky.

The Swainson’s Hawk, a master of the aerial realm, boasts a diverse diet. From small mammals and reptiles to insects and even snakes, they exhibit remarkable adaptability. With precise dives and agile manoeuvres, they epitomize the art of avian predation, feasting on nature’s abundant offerings with graceful efficiency.

Colorado’s conservation efforts have played a vital role in preserving the Swainson’s Hawk and its habitat. Through habitat protection, public education, and scientific research, their populations have thrived. This collective commitment ensures the perpetuation of their mesmerizing presence, nurturing a harmonious coexistence between humans and these majestic aerial nomads.

8. Ferruginous Hawk

• Scientific name: Buteo regalis
• Life span: Up to 20 years
• Size: 22-27 inches (56-69 cm)
• Weight: 2.6-4.4 pounds (1.2-2 kg)
• Wingspan: 52-55 inches (132-140 cm)
• Status: Least Concern

The Ferruginous Hawk, a captivating raptor of North America, claims vast territories that span across the sprawling landscapes of the Great Plains and the western regions. With its majestic presence, it commands attention with a striking appearance. Its plumage, adorned in rich tones of rusty brown, creates a beautiful contrast against its pale underparts, leaving a lasting impression on all who encounter it.

Amidst Colorado’s picturesque landscapes, the Ferruginous Hawk showcases a captivating nesting behaviour. With meticulous precision, they construct substantial nests, carefully weaving twigs and branches into sturdy abodes that cradle their young. Within these lofty havens, a symphony of parental devotion unfolds, as they nurture their offspring with unwavering dedication and protective instincts.

As skilled predators of the sky, the Ferruginous Hawk embraces a diverse diet. From small mammals scurrying amidst the grasslands to snakes and even large insects, they exhibit a versatile palate. With keen eyesight and swift aerial manoeuvres, they unleash their hunting prowess, soaring across the Colorado skies in pursuit of their next meal.

Colorado’s commitment to conservation has been instrumental in preserving the Ferruginous Hawk and its fragile habitat. Through proactive measures such as habitat preservation, research, and public education, their populations have flourished.

This collective effort ensures the perpetuation of these majestic aerial hunters, allowing them to grace the Colorado skies for generations to come, a symbol of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature’s wonders.

9. Northern Harrier

• Scientific name: Circus hudsonius
• 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

The Northern Harrier, a skilled hunter, can be found across various regions of North America, including Colorado. With a distinctive facial disk, a sleek body, and long wings, they effortlessly glide through the skies. Male Northern Harriers perform elaborate aerial displays during courtship, showcasing their agility and charm.

Amidst the captivating landscapes of Colorado, the Northern Harrier unveils its unique nesting behaviour. With an artistic flair, they fashion their nests amidst the tall grasses, meticulously constructing cozy havens where new life takes flight. A display of parental dedication unfolds as they nurture their young with unwavering tenderness, a testament to the enduring bonds of family.

The Northern Harrier, a master of the air, embraces a varied diet. From agile aerial acrobatics to skilful ground-hunting, they seek out small mammals, birds, and even insects. With grace and precision, they execute their hunting strategies, capturing their prey in a captivating dance of predator and quarry.

Colorado’s commitment to conservation has safeguarded the Northern Harrier and its vital habitat. Through habitat preservation, scientific research, and public awareness, their populations have thrived. This collective endeavour ensures the preservation of these enchanting raptors, a testament to our shared responsibility in nurturing the harmony between nature’s wonders and our human presence.

Where to find Hawks in Colorado

In the vast and captivating landscapes of Colorado, encountering hawks in their natural habitat is a thrilling experience for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. To embark on this avian adventure, here are a few tips on where to find hawks and how to maximize your chances of spotting these majestic raptors.

• Rocky Mountain National Park: This iconic national park offers a diverse range of habitats, from montane forests to alpine meadows. Keep an eye out for the Red-Tailed Hawk and the Ferruginous Hawk soaring above the open grasslands or perched on snags, ready to pounce on their unsuspecting prey.
• Pawnee National Grassland: Known for its expansive grasslands, Pawnee is a prime location to observe hawks in their natural element. Scan the skies for the Northern Harrier and the Swainson’s Hawk, as they gracefully glide over the vast prairies in search of small mammals and insects.
• Colorado National Monument: Nestled in the red rock canyons of western Colorado, this dramatic landscape offers an opportunity to spot the Cooper’s Hawk and the Sharp-Shinned Hawk. Look for them perched on rocky outcroppings or gliding through narrow canyons, blending seamlessly with their surroundings.
• San Luis Valley: With its open plains, wetlands, and mountainous areas, the San Luis Valley provides a haven for a variety of hawk species. Keep a keen eye on fence posts and power lines, as the Broad-Winged Hawk and the Rough-Legged Hawk often use these elevated perches to survey their hunting grounds.

When exploring these areas, remember to bring binoculars or a spotting scope to enhance your observation. Patience is key, as hawks may spend extended periods perched or soaring at a distance. Be mindful of their behaviour and avoid disturbing nesting sites to ensure their conservation and protection.

Conclusion

Exploring the world of hawks in Colorado unveils a captivating journey through diverse landscapes, from grasslands to canyons and mountains. Witnessing their aerial prowess and discovering their unique behaviours leaves a lasting impression.

As we embrace the wonders of nature, let us protect and preserve these majestic raptors for future generations to admire and cherish.