Montana’s vast skies and rugged landscapes are home to some of the most majestic birds of prey in North America: hawks. From the soaring red-tailed hawk to the elusive ferruginous hawk, these raptors are an integral part of Montana’s natural heritage. Their sharp eyesight, powerful flight, and keen hunting skills make them fascinating creatures to observe and study.
Whether perched on a fence post scanning the fields or circling high above the plains and mountains, hawks are a common yet awe-inspiring sight in this region. This article explores the different species of hawks found in Montana, their habitats, behaviors, and the role they play in the ecosystem.
We’ll also look at the conservation efforts aimed at protecting these incredible birds. Join me, as we delve into the world of these remarkable raptors and discover what makes Montana a haven for hawk enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.
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: Mostly stays year-round; some migrate south in winter
The Red-Tailed Hawk is one of the most widespread raptors across North America, from the northern forests of Canada down to the deserts of Mexico. In Montana, you can spot them soaring over open fields or perched on telephone poles along highways.
This hawk is recognized by its rich brown plumage above and a lighter, often streaked, underside. Its most distinctive feature is the reddish-orange tail, which is broad and short, easily visible when the bird is in flight. With a robust body and broad wings, the Red-Tailed Hawk presents a majestic silhouette against the sky.
Red-Tailed Hawks are renowned for their impressive nests, which they build high up in tall trees or on cliff ledges. These nests are substantial structures made from sticks and twigs, often measuring up to three feet across.
Both male and female participate in the construction, lining the interior with bark strips, fresh foliage, or even pine needles to create a comfortable environment for their young. In Montana, nesting typically begins in early spring. The pair is monogamous and may use the same nest for several years, adding new materials each season to reinforce it.
The diet of the Red-Tailed Hawk primarily consists of small mammals, making them crucial predators in controlling rodent populations. They hunt animals like mice, voles, rabbits, and squirrels by soaring high above open fields or perching silently before swooping down with remarkable speed.
Their keen eyesight allows them to spot prey from great distances. Occasionally, they may also consume birds, reptiles, or insects, showcasing their adaptability. In Montana’s varied landscapes, these hawks adjust their hunting techniques to the available prey, demonstrating their resourcefulness as hunters.
Historically, Red-Tailed Hawks faced challenges due to hunting and habitat loss. However, they are now protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and their populations are considered stable across North America. In Montana, conservation efforts focus on preserving natural habitats and promoting coexistence with these raptors.
Public education programs help reduce human-wildlife conflicts, and rehabilitation centers work to care for injured individuals. The Red-Tailed Hawk’s successful conservation story highlights the positive impact of legal protections and increased ecological awareness.
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: Primarily resident; some move south in winter
The Cooper’s Hawk inhabits a wide range across North America, from southern Canada to Mexico, and is a common sight in Montana’s mixed forests and even suburban areas. This medium-sized hawk displays a blue-gray back and wings, contrasted by a warm reddish barring on its chest and belly. Its head is capped with a darker crown, and it has a noticeably long, rounded tail with thick dark bands.
The Cooper’s Hawk’s swift flight and maneuverability among trees make it a skilled hunter and an interesting bird to observe in both rural and urban settings.
Cooper’s Hawks build their nests in tall trees within deciduous or mixed forests, often near forest edges or clearings. The nests are constructed from sticks and lined with bark chips and green twigs to provide cushioning. Both parents participate in building the nest, which is typically located high above the ground to protect against predators.
In Montana, nesting begins in late spring, and the female lays a clutch of two to six eggs. Cooper’s Hawks are known for their aggressive defense of the nesting area, sometimes even confronting humans who venture too close.
As adept hunters, Cooper’s Hawks primarily feed on medium-sized birds like pigeons, jays, and robins. They employ stealth and sudden bursts of speed to catch their prey, often pursuing them through intricate flight paths in wooded areas.
They may also consume small mammals such as chipmunks and squirrels. In urban and suburban areas of Montana, Cooper’s Hawks have adapted to hunting around bird feeders, showcasing their ability to thrive in human-altered landscapes. Their presence helps control bird populations, balancing local ecosystems.
Once persecuted due to misconceptions about their impact on game birds and poultry, Cooper’s Hawks have benefited from increased legal protections and changing public attitudes. The banning of harmful pesticides like DDT has also contributed to their recovery. In Montana, conservation efforts focus on preserving suitable habitats and educating the public about the ecological role of raptors.
Monitoring programs track their numbers, and rehabilitation centers assist injured birds. The rebound of Cooper’s Hawks illustrates the success of conservation initiatives and the importance of raptor protection.
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: Breeding and common
- Migration pattern: Some migrate south in winter; others stay year-round
Found throughout Montana’s forests and wooded areas, the Sharp-Shinned Hawk is the smallest hawk in North America. Its range extends from southern Canada through the United States and into parts of Central America.
This bird has a slate-gray back and wings, with a pale underbelly marked by fine reddish barring. Its wings are short and rounded, allowing for agile flight through dense trees. The tail is long and square-tipped, featuring dark bands. The Sharp-Shinned Hawk’s piercing yellow eyes and quick movements make it a fascinating sight for those exploring Montana’s woodlands.
Sharp-Shinned Hawks prefer to nest in dense coniferous or mixed forests, often selecting sites deep within wooded areas to conceal their nests from predators. They build small, well-hidden nests made of twigs and lined with softer materials like bark strips or pine needles. Both the male and female contribute to the construction, which can take several weeks to complete.
In Montana, they typically begin nesting in late spring. The female lays a clutch of three to eight eggs, and the pair is known for their secretive nature during the breeding season, making them a challenge to observe.
These agile raptors primarily hunt small birds, such as sparrows, finches, and warblers. They use their remarkable speed and maneuverability to chase prey through dense foliage, often catching them in mid-flight. Sharp-Shinned Hawks may also feed on small mammals, insects, and occasionally reptiles.
Their hunting style involves sudden bursts of speed and surprise attacks, reflecting their adaptation to forested environments. In Montana, they play a vital role in controlling the populations of smaller bird species, contributing to the ecological balance.
Sharp-Shinned Hawks experienced population declines in the past due to pesticide use, particularly DDT, which led to eggshell thinning and reduced reproductive success. With the banning of such harmful chemicals and increased legal protections, their numbers have rebounded.
In Montana, conservation efforts include monitoring migration patterns and protecting critical habitats. Birdwatching communities contribute to citizen science projects, providing valuable data on their populations. Ongoing research and public education aim to ensure these hawks continue to thrive in Montana’s forests.
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 common
- Migration pattern: Rare winter visitor; migrates north in early spring
Breeding in the Arctic tundra, the Rough-Legged Hawk migrates south to spend winters across the United States, including Montana’s open landscapes. This hawk is unique for its feathered legs, which help protect it from the cold. Plumage varies, but it typically has a mix of brown and cream colors with dark patches on the belly and wrists.
The tail is usually white at the base with a broad dark band at the end. When soaring, the Rough-Legged Hawk’s long wings and distinctive markings make it easy to identify against the winter sky.
Rough-Legged Hawks breed in the Arctic tundra, where they construct nests on cliffs, rocky outcrops, or sometimes in trees when available. The nests are built from sticks, moss, and lichens, lined with softer materials like grass or feathers. Both parents are involved in building and maintaining the nest.
While they do not nest in Montana, these hawks migrate to the state during the winter months. Their nesting behaviour is adapted to the harsh Arctic environment, reflecting their resilience and specialization in cold habitats.
In their breeding grounds, Rough-Legged Hawks primarily feed on small mammals like lemmings and voles. During their winter stay in Montana, they adjust their diet to include rodents such as mice and ground squirrels. They hunt by hovering in the air, a behaviour known as kiting, which allows them to spot prey movements below.
Their ability to hunt effectively in open, often snowy landscapes makes them well-suited to Montana’s winter conditions. Their predation helps control rodent populations during the colder months.
Rough-Legged Hawks are generally considered to have stable populations, but they are sensitive to environmental changes that affect their prey availability. Climate change poses a potential threat by altering habitats and food sources in the Arctic. In Montana, conservation efforts include habitat preservation and monitoring wintering populations.
Researchers study their migratory patterns to understand how environmental changes impact their movements. By supporting conservation initiatives both locally and in their breeding grounds, efforts aim to ensure the continued presence of Rough-Legged Hawks.
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
- Migration pattern: Rare visitor; some migrate south in winter
The Northern Goshawk is a formidable bird of prey known for its powerful build and agility in forested environments. These raptors are found across North America, Europe, and Asia, where they thrive in dense woodlands. They have broad, rounded wings and a long tail, which help them maneuver expertly through trees.
Northern goshawks are characterized by their striking plumage: a slate-gray back with a lighter underbelly adorned with fine barring. Their intense red-orange eyes and pronounced white “eyebrow” or supercilium give them a fierce, alert expression.
Northern Goshawks prefer remote, mature forests for nesting, selecting large trees with sturdy branches to support their sizable nests. These nests are built from sticks and often lined with bark flakes, greenery, and feathers. Both the male and female are involved in nest construction, which can be reused and renovated over several years.
In Montana, nesting starts in early spring, with the female laying two to four eggs. Goshawks are fiercely territorial during the breeding season, aggressively defending their nests against intruders, including other birds and humans.
As powerful predators, Northern Goshawks hunt a variety of prey, including birds like grouse, crows, and woodpeckers, as well as mammals such as rabbits and squirrels. They utilize their strength and agility to pursue prey through dense forests, often employing surprise attacks. Their hunting strategy involves swift, low flights and sudden bursts of speed.
In Montana’s forested regions, they play a critical role in controlling populations of medium-sized birds and mammals, maintaining the ecological balance within their habitats.
Northern Goshawks have faced challenges due to habitat loss from logging and deforestation. Their need for large tracts of mature forests makes them sensitive to environmental changes. In Montana, they are considered a species of concern. Conservation efforts focus on sustainable forestry practices, protecting nesting sites, and monitoring populations.
Research programs study their habitat requirements and migration patterns. Public education emphasizes the importance of preserving forest ecosystems not only for goshawks but for the myriad of species that share their environment.
6. 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: Breeding and common
- Migration pattern: Rare in North Carolina; migrates south in fall
Swainson’s Hawk breeds in the open grasslands and prairies of western North America, including Montana, before migrating to Argentina for the winter—a journey of thousands of miles. This hawk has a dark brown back and a lighter belly, which can range from white to reddish hues.
A key characteristic is the dark chest bib that contrasts with its lighter underparts. The wings are long and pointed, adapting the bird for its lengthy migrations. Often seen perched on fence posts or soaring over fields, Swainson’s Hawk is a familiar sight in Montana’s open spaces.
Swainson’s Hawks prefer open landscapes for nesting, such as grasslands and agricultural areas. They often build nests in solitary trees, shrubs, or even on artificial structures like utility poles. The nests are constructed from sticks and lined with grass, leaves, or fur. Both parents participate in building and maintaining the nest.
In Montana, nesting begins in late spring, with the female laying two to three eggs. These hawks are tolerant of human activity and may nest near farmlands, reflecting their adaptability to different environments.
During the breeding season in Montana, Swainson’s Hawks primarily hunt small mammals like ground squirrels, rabbits, and mice. However, they exhibit a remarkable dietary shift during migration and on their wintering grounds in South America, where they consume large quantities of insects, particularly grasshoppers and locusts. This insectivorous behaviour is unusual among raptors. Their feeding habits make them valuable allies to farmers by controlling pest populations, both locally and abroad. Their ability to switch diets demonstrates their ecological versatility.
Swainson’s Hawks experienced significant population declines in the 1990s due to pesticide poisoning on their wintering grounds in Argentina. International conservation efforts led to changes in pesticide use, resulting in a rebound of their populations.
In Montana, conservation focuses on preserving open habitats and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Monitoring programs track their migratory patterns to identify potential threats along their routes. Education initiatives highlight their role in ecosystems and the importance of protecting them throughout their extensive range.
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 rare
- Migration pattern: Leaves North Carolina in fall; migrates to South America
The Broad-Winged Hawk is a migratory bird that breeds in eastern North America and passes through Montana during its impressive annual migration. This compact hawk has a stocky build with broad wings and a relatively short tail. Its upperparts are brown, while the underparts feature reddish-brown barring on a lighter background.
The tail displays thick black and white bands. During migration, Broad-Winged Hawks form large flocks known as “kettles,” creating a spectacular sight as they soar together en route to their South American wintering grounds.
Broad-Winged Hawks nest in deciduous forests, often near water sources like streams or wetlands. They build small nests composed of sticks and twigs, lined with leaves and bark for comfort. Both male and female contribute to nest construction, usually placing it in the fork of a tree branch, concealed by foliage.
In Montana, they are primarily observed during migration but do nest in some eastern regions of the state. The female lays a clutch of two to three eggs. Their secretive nature during the breeding season makes them less noticeable to observers.
These hawks have a varied diet that includes small mammals, amphibians, insects, and reptiles. They are opportunistic feeders, adapting to the most abundant prey in their environment. During the breeding season, they often consume frogs, toads, and insects like beetles and caterpillars.
They hunt from perches within the forest, dropping down onto unsuspecting prey on the ground. Their dietary flexibility allows them to thrive in different habitats throughout their migratory range, including the forests and fields of Montana.
The Broad-Winged Hawk is notable for its impressive migratory gatherings, where thousands can be seen soaring together in thermals. While their overall population is stable, they face threats from deforestation and habitat fragmentation, especially in their breeding and wintering grounds.
Conservation efforts in Montana and beyond focus on protecting large forested areas and migratory corridors essential for their survival. International cooperation is vital, as their migration extends into Central and South America. Monitoring programs and public education help raise awareness of their ecological importance.
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
- State status: Breeding and rare
- Migration pattern: Rare visitor; typically migrates south of North Carolina
Native to the wide-open deserts and prairies of western North America, the Ferruginous Hawk is part of Montana’s breeding community. It is the largest of the North American hawks, named for its ferruginous, or rust-coloured, plumage on the back and shoulders.
The bird’s underparts are typically white, providing a striking contrast to its reddish legs and wingtips. In flight, it displays broad wings held in a slight V shape and a white tail with rust-coloured markings. The Ferruginous Hawk’s impressive size and distinctive colouring make it a standout among Montana’s raptors.
Ferruginous Hawks favour open prairies and desert grasslands for nesting. They build large nests on the ground, low cliffs, or in isolated trees and shrubs. The nests are made from sticks, bones, and sometimes cow dung, lined with softer vegetation like grass or sagebrush. Both the male and female collaborate in constructing and maintaining the nest.
In Montana, nesting starts in early spring, with the female laying two to four eggs. Their nesting sites are often remote, minimizing human disturbance and reflecting their preference for wide-open spaces.
These hawks primarily feed on small to medium-sized mammals, particularly ground squirrels, prairie dogs, and jackrabbits. They are powerful hunters, capable of capturing larger prey when necessary. Ferruginous Hawks hunt by soaring over open terrain or perching and scanning for movement before launching swift attacks.
In Montana’s grasslands, they play a significant role in controlling rodent populations. Their dependence on specific prey species makes them vulnerable to changes in prey availability due to habitat loss or control programs targeting rodents.
Ferruginous Hawks have faced population declines due to habitat degradation from agricultural expansion, energy development, and human disturbance. They are considered a species of concern in Montana and other parts of their range. Conservation efforts focus on protecting and restoring native grasslands, minimizing disturbances near nesting sites, and promoting land-use practices that support their habitat needs.
Research and monitoring help track their populations and inform management strategies. Public outreach emphasizes the importance of these hawks in prairie ecosystems and encourages support for their conservation.
9. 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: Breeding and common
- Migration pattern: Winters in North Carolina; migrates north in spring
The Northern Harrier is a unique hawk with an extensive range across North America, from the Arctic tundra to Central America. They are easily identified by their owl-like facial disk, long wings, and distinctive white rump patch. Males are typically gray with black wingtips, while females are brown with streaked underparts.
Northern Harriers are commonly seen flying low over marshes, grasslands, and fields, using their keen hearing and vision to hunt. Their graceful, buoyant flight and characteristic V-shaped wing posture make them a distinctive sight in their preferred open habitats.
Northern Harriers are unique among hawks for nesting on the ground in open habitats like wetlands, marshes, and grasslands. They build nests concealed in dense vegetation, using sticks and lining them with grasses and feathers. The female selects the site and constructs the nest, while the male provides food during incubation.
In Montana, nesting occurs from spring into early summer, with the female laying four to six eggs. Their ground-nesting habit makes them susceptible to predation and habitat disturbances, highlighting the need for conservation of their nesting areas.
These hawks primarily hunt small mammals such as voles and mice but also feed on birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. They are known for their low, gliding flight over fields and marshes, using their keen hearing and vision to detect prey.
The distinctive owl-like facial disc helps funnel sound to their ears. In Montana’s diverse ecosystems, Northern Harriers contribute to controlling rodent and insect populations, playing a vital role in maintaining the health of open habitats.
Northern Harriers face challenges due to the loss and degradation of wetlands and grasslands from agriculture, development, and drainage projects. Conservation efforts in Montana focus on preserving and restoring these critical habitats. Initiatives include creating protected areas, promoting sustainable land management practices, and conducting research to better understand their ecological needs.
Public education campaigns aim to raise awareness about the importance of wetlands and the species that depend on them. By safeguarding their habitats, conservationists strive to ensure Northern Harriers continue to soar over Montana’s landscapes.
Where to find Hawks in Montana
Montana’s wild landscapes are a paradise for birdwatchers, especially those eager to see hawks in their natural habitat. To spot these majestic birds of prey, all you need is a good pair of binoculars, a field guide, and a spirit of adventure.
One of the top spots is the Bitterroot Valley. With its mix of open fields and forests, it’s perfect for hawks like the red-tailed and Cooper’s hawk. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal times to catch them soaring overhead or perched in tall trees.
Another great location is the Mission Valley, particularly around the Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge. The wetlands and abundance of small mammals here attract a variety of hawks, making it a hotspot for sightings.
Don’t miss the Bridger Mountains near Bozeman. Known for the annual Bridger Raptor Festival, this area witnesses the migration of thousands of raptors each fall, including many hawk species. Hiking the trails during this season offers breathtaking views.
Lastly, the Rocky Mountain Front near Choteau is a haven for golden eagles and ferruginous hawks. The blend of prairie and mountain terrain provides an excellent backdrop for observing these birds.
Remember always to respect wildlife and keep a safe distance while enjoying the thrill of watching Montana’s hawks in their natural setting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the hawks of Montana are more than just captivating birds; they are integral to the state’s ecological fabric. Their presence across diverse landscapes reflects the health of the environment.
By learning about their behaviours and the challenges they face, we deepen our connection to the natural world. Supporting conservation efforts ensures that these magnificent raptors continue to soar in Montana’s skies for generations to come.
