Hawks in Nevada come in a variety of species, from the mighty Red-tailed Hawk to the agile Cooper’s Hawk, all playing vital roles. The arid terrain of Nevada, from desert valleys to mountainous regions, shapes the habitat these birds rely upon. Observing them in flight reveals their keen eyesight, swift dives, and a natural mastery of the skies.
Whether you’re scanning the open desert for a passing Northern Harrier or catching sight of a perched Ferruginous Hawk on a fence post, each encounter reminds us how essential raptors are to our ecosystems. Many species journey through Nevada each year during migration, while others stick around longer, making the state a prime location for hawk watching.
With diverse landscapes and seasonal shifts, Nevada offers dynamic vantage points to catch glimpses of these majestic birds. Understanding their behavior and habitats deepens our appreciation for the delicate balance they help maintain and survival.
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 behavior: Year-round residents; some migrate in winter.
The Red-tailed Hawk is a familiar sight across North America, from forest edges to deserts, often perched where it can survey wide terrain. It sports a distinctive reddish tail that contrasts with its generally brown body and paler underside. Dark shoulder patches, visible when perched, add to its recognizable profile.
Though its coloration can vary, the red tail is a hallmark in adults. These hawks often circle overhead, displaying broad, rounded wings and a calm, commanding presence. Often spotted on fence posts or overhead lines.
Red-tailed Hawks are the architects of the skies in Nevada, crafting sturdy nests atop the highest trees or even on cliff edges. These nests, often reused and refurbished over the years, become massive structures of sticks, lined with softer materials for comfort. Mates work in tandem, bringing materials back and forth, creating not just a nest but a home.
Their dedication to their nesting site strengthens bonds, making their partnership as enduring as the structures they build. This commitment ensures a safe and cozy cradle for their chicks, sheltered from the prying eyes of predators.
Red-tailed Hawks are the masters of adaptation, feasting on a diet as diverse as the terrain they oversee. From small mammals like rodents and rabbits, which form the bulk of their diet, to birds, reptiles, and even carrion, these raptors demonstrate remarkable versatility.
Their keen eyesight allows them to spot a meal from high above, diving down with precision and power to snag their unsuspecting prey. This adaptability in diet has helped them thrive in a variety of habitats, showcasing their prowess as apex predators.
Once threatened by habitat destruction and the widespread use of pesticides, these hawks have rebounded remarkably, thanks in part to conservation efforts and legal protections. Wildlife enthusiasts and scientists alike have worked tirelessly to monitor populations and protect crucial habitats.
Their presence in the skies is a powerful symbol of nature’s ability to recover, inspiring ongoing efforts to preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of Nevada.
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 behavior: Year-round residents; few migrate in winter.
Cooper’s Hawk is widespread across North America, favouring wooded suburbs and leafy groves alike. It exhibits a blue-gray back contrasting with a barred, reddish chest. A rounded tail with a noticeable white tip sets it apart from smaller relatives.
Often gliding through trees with surprising speed, it appears suddenly, then vanishes just as quickly. Its bright eyes and expression reflect a bold attitude. Whether perched silently or chasing through canopy gaps, Cooper’s Hawk embodies the dynamic spirit of forest raptors across its broad geographical range.
Nesting in Nevada’s woodlands and tree-lined suburbs, Cooper’s Hawks build stick nests often supported by sturdy branches. Both partners share construction duties, weaving together twigs and sometimes adding bark or leaves for a soft lining.
Defensive behavior surfaces when intruders approach, with sharp alarm calls echoing through the canopy. Once the female lays eggs, she remains mostly nest-bound, relying on the male to supply food. As hatchlings grow, parental attentiveness is evident, fostering strong bonds that persist through early development.
In Nevada, Cooper’s Hawks feed primarily on smaller birds they ambush in flight or surprise near backyard feeders. Employing quick maneuvers through tight spaces, they excel at weaving around obstacles to outsmart potential meals. Occasionally, they broaden their menu to include small mammals or reptiles if these options present themselves. This flexibility helps them handle diverse conditions, from developed neighborhood to riparian corridors.
Historically, Cooper’s Hawks experienced declines tied to pesticide use and habitat loss, yet recovery efforts ultimately improved outcomes in Nevada. Conservationists raised awareness about preserving wooded corridors and restricting harmful chemicals that impact prey species. Urban expansion introduced challenges, but these adaptable hawks found nesting niches even in suburban zones.
Modern initiatives prioritize public education, urging residents to maintain tree cover and respect sensitive nesting seasons. Steady monitoring informs strategies for balancing development with raptor welfare, ensuring Cooper’s Hawks continue thriving as charismatic woodland predators.
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
- Migratory behavior: Winter visitors; migrate north in spring.
The Sharp-shinned Hawk is known for its quick, agile flight through dense woodlands across much of North America. It often surprises birds by weaving swiftly among branches before emerging into open clearings. Its slate-gray back contrasts against a lighter chest, featuring fine, rusty barring that adds distinct texture.
A short, squared tail helps distinguish it from similar species when observed closely. Often seen near forest edges, this hawk’s stealthy approach and abrupt maneuvers highlight its remarkable hunting skills. Its piercing gaze reveals an energetic character.
The Sharp-shinned Hawk in Nevada nests in dense conifer stands, camouflaging its structure among thick foliage. The pair constructs a platform of twigs and lines it with bark or softer plant fibers. They remain vigilant, defending their chosen site with aerial maneuvers. During the breeding period, the female stays close to the nest, while the male delivers nesting materials and stands guard.
In Nevada, the Sharp-shinned Hawk’s diet relies heavily on smaller birds, songbirds it ambushes through pursuits among trees or hedgerows. It uses stealth, hugging cover until the moment arrives for a lightning strike. Once it captures its target, it retreats to a perch to pluck feathers before feeding. Occasionally, it may supplement meals with insects or small mammals, adapting to seasonal shifts.
Historically, the Sharp-shinned Hawk faced pressures from deforestation and pesticide use, which impacted prey availability in Nevada. Over time, improved forest management and environmental regulations helped stabilize numbers. Today, conservation focuses on safeguarding wooded habitats and maintaining balanced ecosystems that support healthy prey populations. Monitoring programs track migration routes, offering insight into broader population trends.
4. Common Black Hawk
- Scientific name: Buteogallus anthracinus
- Life span: 10 – 15 years
- Size: 18 – 22 inches / 46 – 56 cm
- Weight: 1.5 – 2.2 lbs / 0.7 – 1 kg
- Wingspan: 42 – 48 inches / 107 – 122 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and rare
- Migratory behavior: Leave after breeding; rare sightings in fall.
The Common Black Hawk is found in parts of the southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central America, favouring riparian zones and wetlands. Its plumage appears mostly dark, with broad wings that taper and a short, fan-shaped tail featuring a white band.
Perched near water, it maintains a watchful stance, often scanning for potential activity along the shoreline. Bright yellow legs and a distinctive cere add contrast to its dusky appearance. In flight, slow, deliberate wingbeats set it apart from other hawks, highlighting its tranquil style.
In Nevada, Common Black Hawks are occasional visitors, nesting primarily where lush riparian areas provide tree canopies for secure platforms. They weave stout stick nests, often close to water, and line them with damp leaves or strips of bark. During courtship, the pair engages in vocal calls and short flights, communicating territory ownership. Once eggs are laid, the female remains attentive, while the male helps guard against disturbances.
Though not abundant in Nevada, Common Black Hawks forage near streams or rivers, scanning the shallows for fish, amphibians, or other water-dwelling creatures. Their slow, methodical flight allows them to hover briefly, assessing movements beneath the surface. Occasionally, they may explore nearby brush for additional potential prey. This specialized feeding approach reflects adaptations shaped by a life near aquatic environments.
Historically, Common Black Hawks’ limited nesting in Nevada hinged on the availability of intact riparian corridors. Human activities like dam construction and water diversion threatened suitable breeding sites. Modern conservation efforts emphasize protecting riverine habitats, restoring native vegetation, and reducing pollution levels.
Wildlife agencies and local groups closely monitor sightings, documenting expansions or declines. With improved habitat management, certain pockets have seen gradual increases. By balancing water needs for agriculture, communities, and wildlife, Nevada fosters conditions that allow Common Black Hawks to persist and possibly expand their foothold.
5. 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
- Migratory behavior: Rare migrants; leave in late summer.
The Broad-winged Hawk is best known for its migratory flocks, which can fill autumn skies throughout eastern North America. With a compact build, it displays dark upperparts and a banded tail, while its underparts feature lighter hues accented by broad horizontal bars. During migration, individuals may circle in thermal currents, forming swirling groups known as “kettles.”
In forest habitats, it often perches silently, scanning its surroundings with keen vigilance. Observers at the high-pitched whistle that announces its presence. The Broad-winged Hawk’s journey remains a spectacle.
Breeding predominantly in eastern forests, Broad-winged Hawks seldom nest extensively in Nevada, but occasional pairs may settle if conditions align, but is extremely rare and will be due to the individual being off course. In their normal breeding habitats they select dense woodlands where they weave stick nests lined with soft leaves.
Protective instincts emerge once the female lays eggs, with the male remaining nearby, poised to drive away threats. Vocal calls echo through the canopy, signaling claimed territory. The finished nest becomes a well-concealed cradle, guarding the hawks’ young from harsh conditions and lurking predators.
While passing through Nevada, Broad-winged Hawks forage opportunistically on small animals they flush out from forest edges or shrubby clearings. Preferring to perch and wait, they exhibit patience before diving onto an unsuspecting target. Although primarily associated with wooded habitats, they tolerate open spaces during migration. Their broad wings allow tight manoeuvring in the canopy, but also facilitate soaring on rising thermals.
Historically, Broad-winged Hawks experienced minimal direct pressures in Nevada due to their more common presence farther east. Still, overarching concerns like deforestation, pesticide exposure, and climate changes can ripple across migratory routes. Conservation groups encourage habitat connectivity, ensuring these travelers find suitable stopover points.
Research teams document sightings, tracking population shifts and habitat usage. By maintaining healthy woodlands and educating local communities on the importance of preserving migration corridors, residents support this hawk’s continued seasonal passage through Nevada’s varied terrain.
6. 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 uncommon
- Migratory behavior: Winter visitors; leave in early spring.
The Rough-legged Hawk travels across northern regions and ventures into open country south during cooler months. Its plumage includes contrasting dark patches at the belly and wrist areas, set against paler feathers along the head and underside. Feathering that extends down the legs gives it a distinctive look, hinting at protection from cold environments.
Frequently observed hovering or perching on fence posts, it reveals a alert posture. Its broad wings and subtle color variations stand out in bright winter light, drawing attention from watchful enthusiasts.
When winter approaches, Rough-legged Hawks travel southward into Nevada’s open spaces, seeking nesting grounds much farther north during summer. In their Arctic breeding range, they construct bulky stick nests on cliffs or elevated slopes, often relying on tundra vegetation for insulation.
Though they rarely breed in Nevada, transient individuals may linger in suitable terrain, scanning fields from perched vantage points. If local conditions allow, they rest in remote corners free from heavy disturbance, awaiting the next seasonal shift that cues their departure.
Though primarily arriving in colder months, Rough-legged Hawks adapt their diet in Nevada’s semi-arid environments by hunting rodents scurrying across open fields. Employing a patient hover or perched observation, they swoop down with measured precision to grasp unsuspecting prey. Occasionally, they add birds to their menu if resources are limited. Their feathered legs help them endure cooler conditions, reflecting an evolutionary advantage gained from Arctic origins.
Historically, Rough-legged Hawks have avoided the most severe pressures faced by some resident hawks due to their northern breeding territories. However, shifts in land use across migratory corridors and potential climate changes may affect their winter haunts in Nevada.
Monitoring programs strive to document arrivals, revealing long-term population fluctuations. While not a core breeding species in the region, they benefit indirectly from habitat preservation efforts that maintain open prairies and reduce pesticide presence.
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: Breeding and common
- Migratory behavior: Leave in fall; migrate to South America.
Swainson’s Hawk ranges across the wide-open spaces of western North America, migrating to South America in groups each year. It often sports a contrasting appearance on its underwings, with darker flight feathers that stand out against paler wing linings. A brown chest and head merge into lighter underparts, creating a color division.
Perching on fence posts or utility poles, it remains watchful for any movement on the ground below. During migration, swirling masses known as kettles can appear, creating a scene. Swainson’s Hawk embodies wanderlust.
Swainson’s Hawks in Nevada choose open country for nesting, favouring scattered trees or even utility poles for elevated platforms. Both adults collaborate, gathering sticks and lining their structure with grass or similar materials. Defensive displays emerge if intruders approach, though they generally remain tolerant of mild disturbances.
Late spring marks their nesting cycle, aligning with increased prey availability. Once hatchlings arrive, adults share parenting duties, ensuring each chick receives enough warmth and protection to weather the region’s changing climate.
In Nevada, Swainson’s Hawks feed on insects, especially during summer, along with rodents or other small creatures found across grasslands and farmland edges. Their foraging approach includes soaring above fields, scanning for any sign of movement, and gracefully descending when an opportunity presents itself.
They sometimes gather in groups during peak insect emergences, capitalizing on abundant resources. This seasonal adaptability lets them flourish despite shifting prey patterns, highlighting their natural flexibility in both behavior and habitat selection.
Historically, Swainson’s Hawks experienced population declines due to pesticide use and habitat conversion throughout their broad range. Modern conservation measures in Nevada emphasize promoting sustainable agricultural practices and maintaining open areas for hunting and nesting. Bird monitoring initiatives collect data on annual migrations, shedding light on fluctuating trends.
Partnerships between farmers, researchers, and policymakers encourage the adoption of wildlife-friendly measures. Through ongoing education and awareness campaigns, Swainson’s Hawks find improved conditions in parts of Nevada, illustrating how collaborative strategies can benefit both agriculture and native raptor species.
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 common
- Migratory behavior: Leave after breeding; return in spring.
The Ferruginous Hawk inhabits the open plains of western North America, truly symbolizing the spirit of wide horizons. Its plumage features rusty tones on the back and shoulders, contrasting with white underparts. Darker markings may also appear on the legs or belly, adding variety to its overall coloration.
Perched atop fence posts or low ridges, it surveys the landscape with a vigilant stare. Strong wings and a chest provide an unmistakable silhouette in flight. Observers remark on its regal bearing, befitting its name and heritage.
Ferruginous Hawks nest in Nevada’s wide-open spaces, favouring grasslands or desert plains with minimal tree cover. Pairs often build large, bulky nests on elevated sites, like rock outcrops or isolated ledges, layering them with sticks and lining with grasses. They can be territorial, hovering protectively when intruders approach.
Early spring sees renewed construction or refurbishment of existing nests, signifying the start of their breeding cycle. By situating these sturdy structures in strategic locations, they defend against ground-based threats and secure vantage points for nearby prey.
Diet-wise, Ferruginous Hawks in Nevada regularly pursue small to medium-sized mammals, capitalizing on rodents or rabbits that populate open areas. Their broad wings allow sweeping patrols, scanning for sudden scurries below. When quarry appears, they dive with impressive speed and precision. In times of scarcity, they may take advantage of carrion or less typical prey sources.
Historically, Ferruginous Hawks encountered diminishing grasslands and changes in grazing practices, affecting prey distribution. Conservation efforts in Nevada strive to preserve rangeland ecosystems, balancing livestock needs with wildlife requirements.
Monitoring programs target known breeding locations, advising land managers on protection strategies. Where possible, voluntary agreements encourage ranchers to maintain nesting substrates and rodent populations. Gradually, awareness has grown around the hawk’s role in controlling pests.
9. Northern Goshawk
- Scientific name: Accipiter atricapillus
- 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 uncommon
- Migratory behavior: Mostly stay year-round; some migrate in winter.
The Northern Goshawk inhabits boreal forests and mountainous regions across the northern hemisphere, including parts of North America and Eurasia. Its striking appearance features slate-gray upperparts, a pale eyebrow line, and finely barred underparts. Renowned for its powerful flight, this hawk navigates dense woodlands, manoeuvring among trunks and branches.
A long, rounded tail and broad wings help it pivot sharply in pursuit of opportunities. Observers are often captivated by its focused stare, revealing a determined spirit. The Northern Goshawk’s presence exemplifies both strength and adaptability.
In Nevada’s higher elevations and forested pockets, Northern Goshawks select mature stands where they carefully build large stick nests, often on sturdy limbs with dense overhead cover. Both adults transport twigs, lining their structure with bark or fresh greenery.
Defensive displays intensify during nesting, including vocal outbursts and agile pursuits to ward off intruders. The female stays diligent over her clutch, while the male provides support through food deliveries. This close teamwork ensures a stable environment for hatchlings in sometimes rugged settings.
The Northern Goshawk in Nevada specializes in hunting within wooded habitats, using sharp turns and quick bursts of speed to overtake prey. It capitalizes on concealed approaches, appearing suddenly between trunks or dense foliage. While birds serve as a common staple, this determined hunter may target small mammals when an opportunity arises.
Historically, the Northern Goshawk encountered habitat pressures from logging and human expansion, reducing prime nesting grounds in certain areas. Conservation efforts now prioritize the protection of mature forests, ensuring these hawks retain suitable territory.
Researchers track their distribution, gathering data on breeding success and migration patterns. Some forest management plans include maintaining buffer zones around known nests, limiting disturbance.
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: Breeding and common
- Migratory behavior: Mostly year-round; some migrate in fall.
The Northern Harrier ranges across marshes, fields, and open meadows throughout much of North America in cooler latitudes. It has a slim body, long wings, and a white rump patch visible in flight. The male is typically gray above, while the female showcases shades of brown.
Often gliding low over wetlands, this hawk tilts its wings, scanning for motion below. Its facial disk enhances its look, setting it apart from other species. Observers blend of elegance and focus when watching the Northern Harrier across habitats.
Northern Harriers in Nevada favor marshes, wet meadows, or open grasslands for nesting, building low platforms of reeds or grasses hidden among vegetation. Their breeding period begins in spring, with the female incubating eggs while the male delivers food.
The distinctive courtship display involves the male’s undulating flight and sharp calls, an aerial dance that marks territory claims. Once hatchlings emerge, both adults remain watchful, defending their brood against predators.
Dietarily, the Northern Harrier relies heavily on small mammals scurrying through Nevada’s fields or marshy fringes. Gliding low with wings held in a V-shape, it listens and looks for subtle rustles below. A sudden pivot or drop signals its strike, snatching unsuspecting creatures in a swift motion. Sometimes, it includes birds or reptiles if conditions demand flexibility. This focus on ground-based prey, combined with a keen sense of hearing, gives the harrier an edge in overlooked habitats.
Historically, Northern Harriers faced challenges when wetlands were drained or converted for agriculture, limiting suitable nesting areas and prey. Over time, focused conservation in Nevada helped restore some marshlands, offering these raptors new opportunities.
Monitoring programs map their breeding success, providing clues about habitat quality. Public awareness campaigns also encourage protection of grassland and wetland ecosystems, recognizing the bird’s role in natural pest control.
Where to find Hawks in Nevada
Finding hawks in Nevada can be an exciting endeavor for both avid birdwatchers and curious newcomers. The state’s varied landscapes, from desert lowlands to mountain peaks, host numerous hawk species that thrive in different habitats. To boost your chances of spotting them, set out early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when temperatures are cooler and hawks are more active.
Bring a reliable pair of binoculars and patiently scan the sky or perched birds on fence posts. Watching for sudden movements can be a rewarding tactic, as hawks often switch positions when hunting for prey.
Some top spots to see hawks include Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, known for its wetlands and open grassland areas. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers dramatic cliffs and wide vistas that hawks frequently patrol.
The Goshute Mountains in northeast Nevada provide a prime location for observing hawk migration during the fall months. Lastly, the Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge is an oasis surrounded by mountain scenery, attracting multiple raptor species. Each site delivers unique vantage points to witness these majestic birds of prey in action.
By embracing Nevada’s diverse habitats, you’ll truly discover the hawks’ essential role in maintaining ecological harmony.
Conclusion
Throughout Nevada, hawks illustrate the enduring bond between desert edges and mountain corridors. Observing them fosters deeper respect for the intricate connections sustaining wildlife here. By preserving open spaces and mindful stewardship, local populations remain healthy, delighting birdwatchers every season.
Each sighting offers a glimpse into the region’s resilience, demonstrating how these raptors adapt and flourish. With continued conservation efforts, Nevada’s hawks will continue to grace our skies, symbolizing the state’s proud abiding natural spirit.
