Mississippi is home to a diverse range of hawk species, each playing a vital role in the state’s ecosystem. From the powerful Red-tailed Hawk soaring through open fields to the elusive Cooper’s Hawk navigating dense woodlands, these birds of prey can be found in various habitats across the state.
Some hawks are year-round residents, while others are seasonal visitors, making their appearances during migration. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or simply curious about local wildlife, learning about Mississippi’s hawks offers a unique glimpse into the state’s natural beauty and ecological balance.
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
- Migration pattern: Resident; doesn’t leave Mississippi
The Red-tailed Hawk is widespread across North America, including the United States, Canada, and parts of Mexico. This adaptable bird can be found in various habitats, from open fields and deserts to woodlands. It is recognized by its broad, rounded wings and the reddish-brown tail that gives it its name.
The plumage varies but typically includes a pale underbelly with a dark band across the belly. The back and wings are a rich brown, providing effective camouflage when perched in trees or gliding over open landscapes.
Red-tailed Hawks are known for their dedication to nesting, often returning to the same site year after year. They build large, sturdy nests made of sticks, typically situated high in trees, cliffs, or even on man-made structures like utility poles. The nest is lined with softer materials like bark and leaves, providing a comfortable spot for their young.
The female usually lays 2-3 eggs, which both parents incubate for about a month. Their attentive parenting style ensures the young hatchlings are well-fed and protected.
The diet of the Red-tailed Hawk is highly adaptable, allowing it to thrive in diverse habitats. It primarily feeds on small mammals like rodents, which make up a significant portion of its meals. However, it is also known to hunt birds, reptiles, and occasionally insects. Red-tailed Hawks often perch silently on tree branches or poles, scanning the ground for movement before swooping down with precision. This varied diet makes them effective hunters and helps maintain a balanced ecosystem wherever they live.
The Red-tailed Hawk has had a stable population over the years, thanks to its adaptability to changing landscapes. Conservation efforts have focused on protecting their habitats from deforestation and urban development, which can disrupt their nesting sites.
As a result, these hawks have benefitted from legal protections in many regions, including those outlined in the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Their status as a species of least concern is a testament to successful conservation measures and their ability to adapt to new challenges in both rural and urban environments.
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
- Migration pattern: Resident; may migrate south in winter
The Cooper’s Hawk is commonly found throughout the forests and woodlands of North America, from southern Canada to Mexico. In Mississippi, it is often seen in wooded areas and even suburban neighborhoods, adapting well to areas with tree cover. It is medium-sized with a blue-gray back, reddish-barred underparts, and a long, rounded tail with dark bands.
Its sleek, agile build is well-suited for weaving through trees in pursuit of smaller birds. The sharp-eyed, focused gaze of the Cooper’s Hawk is characteristic of its hunting style.
Cooper’s Hawks prefer to nest in wooded areas, often choosing a dense forest or an urban park with tall trees. They build their nests high up in the branches, constructing a platform of sticks and twigs. The female lays about 3-5 eggs, and both parents share the duties of incubation and feeding. These hawks are very protective of their nesting territory, often chasing away intruders, including other birds of prey. Their secluded nest sites help them raise their young with minimal disturbances from predators.
Cooper’s Hawks are skilled hunters, specializing in catching medium-sized birds, such as doves and robins. They are well adapted to pursuing prey through dense tree cover, using their agility and speed to surprise their targets. They also feed on small mammals like squirrels and chipmunks. Cooper’s Hawks are often seen darting through wooded areas in pursuit of a meal. Their ability to maneuver through tight spaces makes them formidable predators in both rural woodlands and suburban areas.
Cooper’s Hawks were once in decline due to habitat loss and pesticide use, but conservation measures have helped their populations recover. They are now a common sight in many areas, including urban environments, where they have adapted to city parks and neighborhood. Legal protections, like those under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, have played a significant role in their resurgence. Educational programs highlighting the importance of raptors have also contributed to the species’ improved status, ensuring that Cooper’s Hawks continue to thrive.
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 uncommon
- Migration pattern: Migrates; leaves Mississippi in fall
The Sharp-shinned Hawk, the smallest hawk in North America, ranges from southern Canada through the United States and into Central America. It prefers dense forests and wooded edges, where it can use its quick, nimble flight to pursue prey. It has a blue-gray back, reddish-orange barring on the chest, and a long, square-tipped tail with dark bands.
The sharp transition between its slender body and rounded head gives it a unique profile. These hawks are most commonly seen during migration when they pass through open areas.
Sharp-shinned Hawks prefer to nest in dense forests, often choosing coniferous trees for the seclusion they provide. Their nests are constructed with sticks and twigs, placed high up in the canopy, usually near the trunk for added support. The female lays about 3-5 eggs, and both parents contribute to incubation and feeding duties.
Sharp-shinned Hawks are known for being secretive during the nesting season, which helps protect their young from potential threats. Their choice of dense cover provides security against larger predators and human disturbances.
Sharp-shinned Hawks are specialized bird hunters, preying primarily on small songbirds such as sparrows and finches. They rely on their agility and speed to catch prey, often pursuing them through thick vegetation. With sharp talons and quick reflexes, they can capture birds mid-flight, making them efficient hunters. Sharp-shinned Hawks also adapt to seasonal changes, varying their diet to include small mammals and insects when birds are less abundant, especially during migration or winter.
Conservation efforts for Sharp-shinned Hawks have focused on maintaining their forest habitats, which are critical for breeding. They are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, ensuring legal protection against hunting and nest disturbances.
Though populations have fluctuated in some regions due to deforestation and pesticide use, overall, their numbers remain stable. Increased awareness of the importance of raptors has led to better habitat preservation, allowing Sharp-shinned Hawks to continue thriving in the forested areas they call home.
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
- State status: Migratory and common
- Migration pattern: Departs Mississippi in September for migration
The Broad-winged Hawk breeds in the eastern parts of North America and migrates to Central and South America during the winter, forming large flocks known as “kettles” during migration. In appearance, it has a stocky build with a short, broad tail marked with black and white bands. The back is a dark brown, while the underparts are lighter with faint barring.
This hawk is most often seen in dense forests, where its compact size helps it navigate through trees. Its seasonal migrations make it a spectacular sight for birdwatchers.
Broad-winged Hawks nest in dense deciduous or mixed forests, often near water. Their nests are built in the crotch of a tree, using sticks and lined with softer materials like moss and leaves. The female lays about 2-3 eggs, and both parents take turns incubating them. These hawks are known for their strong attachment to their nesting sites, frequently returning to the same location each year. The secluded nature of their chosen nesting spots helps shield their young from predators and human disturbance.
The diet of the Broad-winged Hawk is quite varied, depending on the season and location. During the breeding season, they feed on small mammals, amphibians, and insects. They often hunt from perches, waiting quietly before swooping down on their prey. Insects, such as grasshoppers, become a larger part of their diet in the summer months. This adaptability in their diet allows them to thrive in diverse environments, making them efficient hunters in both forested and open areas.
Broad-winged Hawks have been the focus of conservation efforts aimed at preserving their forested breeding habitats. Protection under laws like the Migratory Bird Treaty Act has helped maintain their population stability. However, habitat loss due to deforestation poses a threat in some regions.
Their spectacular migration, during which thousands of hawks can be seen traveling together, has made them a favourite among birdwatchers, further encouraging conservation awareness. These efforts have contributed to a relatively stable population, allowing them to continue their impressive journeys.
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
- State status: Migratory and rare
- Migration pattern: Leaves Mississippi in March after wintering
The Rough-legged Hawk is a winter visitor to Mississippi, migrating from its breeding grounds in the Arctic tundra to more temperate regions of North America. It is often seen in open fields and marshes, where it hunts by hovering over the ground.
This hawk is named for the feathers covering its legs down to the toes, which help insulate it in cold environments. Its plumage is generally pale with dark patches on the belly and wrists, and its tail has a distinctive white base with a dark band near the tip.
The Rough-Legged Hawk’s nesting habits mirror its hardy character. In the challenging Arctic tundra, it crafts nests atop rocky outcrops or on the ground. Its tenacity in facing the harsh elements during nesting season demonstrates its commitment to ensuring its offspring’s survival, even in the most demanding environments.
Adorned with feathered legs, the Rough-Legged Hawk is built for the hunt. Its prey of choice consists of small mammals like voles and lemmings, which it scans the tundra for with keen eyesight. This raptor’s ability to endure frigid temperatures and secure its next meal underscores its role as a skilled and resourceful predator.
Rough-Legged Hawks are subject to ongoing monitoring due to potential threats posed by climate change on their Arctic breeding grounds. Conservationists work to preserve their tundra habitats while fostering awareness about the vital interconnectedness of these environments and the creatures that depend on them.
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
- State status: Migratory and rare
- Migration pattern: Rare; no significant migration from Mississippi
The Northern Goshawk is a powerful raptor that inhabits dense forests across North America, including parts of Canada and the northern United States. In Mississippi, it is a rare winter visitor, usually found in forested areas. This bird is known for its bold, striking appearance, with slate-gray upperparts, a white underbody, and fine gray barring.
Its red eyes give it a fierce expression, and it has a distinctive white stripe above each eye. The Northern Goshawk’s broad wings and long tail enable agile flight through thick woods.
The Northern Goshawk’s nesting behaviour is a masterclass in adapting to its wooded realm. Crafting large nests in the heart of coniferous forests, these raptors maintain their authority over their territory with fierce dedication. Their aerial displays and tenacious defence of their nests serve as a testament to their prowess as woodland sentinels.
With a taste for mammals, birds, and even the occasional reptile, the Northern Goshawk holds a versatile palate. Its ability to swiftly navigate through dense foliage grants it access to a varied menu, making it a skilled opportunist capable of thriving in intricate woodland ecosystems.
Northern Goshawks have faced challenges due to habitat loss and human interference. As a result, conservationists have engaged in habitat restoration efforts and educated the public about these apex predators’ crucial role in maintaining ecological equilibrium within their forest domains.
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
- State status: Migratory and rare
- Migration pattern: Migrates south; leaves Mississippi in fall
Swainson’s Hawk has a remarkable migratory pattern, traveling from its breeding grounds in the western United States and Canada to wintering areas in South America. Though not common in Mississippi, it can occasionally be seen during migration. It has long, pointed wings and a relatively slender body, making it well-suited for soaring.
The plumage varies but typically features a light underside with a darker chest band and a brown back. The wings show a two-toned appearance in flight, with contrasting light and dark areas.
Swainson’s Hawks prefer to nest solitarily, choosing tall trees in open landscapes like prairies, grasslands, and agricultural areas. Each pair selects a quiet spot with a clear view, typically building their nests 10-30 feet off the ground. The nest is constructed of sticks and lined with softer materials like grass and leaves, creating a comfortable space for their young. Swainson’s Hawks often return to the same nesting site year after year, sometimes refurbishing an existing nest.
The Swainson’s Hawk boasts a diverse diet, ranging from insects and small mammals to birds and reptiles. Their migratory nature leads to seasonal variations in their menu, reflecting their ability to adapt to changing food availability during their impressive journeys between North and South America.
Swainson’s Hawks have faced threats from habitat loss and pesticide exposure during their South American wintering grounds. Conservationists have been working to raise awareness about the importance of preserving these hawks’ breeding and wintering habitats, while also advocating for sustainable agricultural practices to mitigate pesticide-related risks.
8. 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 common
- Migration pattern: Resident; doesn’t leave Mississippi
The Red-shouldered Hawk ranges throughout the eastern United States, parts of the West Coast, and into Mexico. In Mississippi, it inhabits wet woodlands and swampy forests. This hawk is known for its striking appearance, with rusty-red shoulders, a barred reddish chest, and a checkered pattern of black and white on its wings. Its tail is dark with white bands, making it distinctive in flight. The bird’s vibrant colors and pattern help distinguish it from other similar raptors in its habitat.
Red-shouldered Hawks often choose dense, mature woodlands near water sources for nesting, making their homes high in trees. They construct nests using sticks and line them with bark and fresh green leaves, creating a stable structure. These hawks typically lay 2-4 eggs, which hatch after about a month of incubation.
Both parents are involved in nest defense and care for the young, often returning to the same nesting site year after year. Their strong territorial nature ensures that their chosen nesting spots remain secure from other predators.
Red-shouldered Hawks have a diverse diet that includes small mammals, amphibians, and reptiles. They are particularly fond of hunting in wetland areas, where they can find frogs and small fish. This hawk’s diet reflects its preference for habitats near water. They also prey on small birds and insects, which they catch using their sharp talons. With a keen eye for movement, they hunt from perches, swooping down swiftly to capture prey on the ground or in shallow waters.
Red-shouldered Hawk populations were once threatened by habitat loss due to deforestation, but conservation efforts have helped stabilize their numbers. Protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, these hawks have seen improvements in population as mature forests are preserved and restored.
Their numbers have benefited from increased awareness about the importance of wetland conservation. While they face challenges in areas with rapid urban development, the species remains a conservation success story in parts of its range where forests have been protected.
9. 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
- State status: Migratory and rare
- Migration pattern: Rare; migrates south in fall
The Ferruginous Hawk is native to the open plains and deserts of the western United States, but it can sometimes be seen in Mississippi during the winter. This hawk is the largest of the North American Buteos, with broad wings and a large head. It has a pale underbody with rusty-red shoulders and a white or light-coloured tail.
The back is typically a rich rust color, which inspired its name. Its feathered legs, or “boots,” extend to the toes, distinguishing it from many other hawks.
The Ferruginous Hawk’s nesting behaviour echoes the vastness of its open grassland habitat. Constructing bulky nests on cliffs or in trees, these hawks claim a commanding view of their surroundings. Their dedication to safeguarding their nests reflects their adaptability to the expansive landscapes they call home.
With a penchant for larger prey, the Ferruginous Hawk predominantly targets ground squirrels, rabbits, and even reptiles. Its specialized hunting techniques and strong talons are suited to capturing these substantial meals, solidifying its role as a top predator in the grasslands it inhabits.
Ferruginous Hawks have faced challenges due to habitat fragmentation and human disturbance. Conservation efforts focus on preserving their grassland habitats and minimizing disturbances during the sensitive nesting season. The recovery of their populations underlines the positive impact of targeted conservation initiatives.
10. 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 uncommon
- Migration pattern: Leaves Mississippi in April after wintering
The Northern Harrier has a broad range across North America, breeding in Canada and the northern United States and migrating southward for the winter. It prefers open landscapes such as marshes, grasslands, and fields, where it can glide low in search of prey. This raptor is characterized by a distinctive white rump patch and long, narrow wings.
Males are gray above with lighter underparts, while females are larger and have a brown, streaked appearance. Their owl-like facial disc sets them apart from other hawks.
Northern Harriers have a unique nesting strategy, choosing ground sites in open fields, marshes, and grasslands. The female constructs the nest, weaving together grasses, reeds, and sticks into a hidden spot among thick vegetation. The nests are often built on slightly elevated ground to avoid flooding. They lay 4-6 eggs, which the female incubates while the male provides food. Ground-nesting makes them vulnerable to predators, but their choice of dense cover helps keep their nests concealed and offers some protection for their young.
The Northern Harrier’s diet is specialized to suit its habitat, mainly consisting of small mammals like voles and mice. It also feeds on small birds, reptiles, and insects. Unlike many other hawks, Northern Harriers rely heavily on their sense of hearing to locate prey, aided by their owl-like facial disc. This feature helps direct sound to their ears, making them effective hunters even in dense grasses. They fly low over fields, using a graceful, tilting flight to surprise their prey.
Northern Harriers have faced habitat challenges due to the loss of wetlands and open fields, which are crucial for their nesting and hunting. Conservation efforts have focused on preserving these habitats, particularly through the protection of grasslands and wetland reserves. Despite these challenges, they remain a species of least concern, though their numbers have seen regional declines. Continued efforts to maintain and restore open habitats are vital for supporting healthy populations, as these areas provide the resources Northern Harriers need for breeding and survival.
Where to find Hawks in Mississippi
Spotting hawks in Mississippi can be a thrilling experience, as these birds of prey are often seen soaring high or perched quietly, scanning for their next meal. To increase your chances, head out early in the morning or late in the afternoon when hawks are most active. Bring a good pair of binoculars and look for them near open fields, rivers, or the edges of forests where they hunt.
Some of the best places to observe hawks in Mississippi include:
- Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge: A haven for wildlife, this area offers plenty of open spaces and woodland edges, perfect for spotting Red-shouldered Hawks and others.
- Delta National Forest: Known for its diverse bird life, this spot is great for seeing migrating Broad-winged Hawks.
- Tishomingo State Park: With a mix of woodlands and river areas, it’s a good place to catch a glimpse of Cooper’s Hawks.
- Natchez Trace Parkway: This scenic route offers open views where you can spot Northern Harriers gliding low over the fields.
Exploring these areas can be a rewarding way to observe Mississippi’s hawk species in their natural habitats.
Conclusion
Mississippi’s diverse landscapes provide a rich habitat for a variety of hawk species, each contributing to the state’s unique natural ecosystem. From the adaptable Red-tailed Hawk to the elusive Northern Harrier, these raptors play a crucial role in controlling rodent populations and maintaining ecological balance.
Understanding their behaviours, migration patterns, and conservation needs helps us appreciate their presence and the importance of protecting their habitats. For bird enthusiasts and nature lovers, observing these magnificent birds in Mississippi offers a deeper connection to the natural world and the need to preserve it for future generations.
