Hawks are some of the most impressive birds you can spot in Washington. Whether soaring over open fields, gliding through dense forests, or perching on roadside poles, these birds of prey are a common yet exciting sight. With their sharp eyesight, powerful talons, and incredible speed, hawks play a key role in keeping local ecosystems balanced.
Washington is home to a variety of hawk species, each with its own unique habits and habitats. Some, like the Red-tailed Hawk, are easy to spot, while others, like the Northern Goshawk, are more elusive. Whether you’re a casual birdwatcher or a dedicated wildlife enthusiast, learning to recognize these raptors can make your time outdoors even more rewarding.
In this article, I’ll introduce you to the hawks of Washington, covering where to find them, how to identify them, and what makes each species special. Keep your eyes to the sky—there’s always something amazing to see!
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: Generally resident; some may migrate south in fall.
The Red-tailed Hawk is one of the most widespread raptors in North America, found from Alaska to Central America. This adaptable hawk thrives in a variety of landscapes, including forests, grasslands, deserts, and even urban areas. Its most recognizable feature is its broad, rust-coloured tail, which contrasts with its brown-streaked body.
The bird’s underbelly is usually pale with a dark band running across the chest, giving it a distinctive appearance when seen soaring overhead. Red-tailed Hawks have broad, rounded wings and often glide in slow circles, making them easy to spot. Their color patterns can vary significantly, with some individuals appearing much darker than others.
Year-round residents in many regions, they can also migrate, especially those from northern climates. These hawks are commonly seen perching on telephone poles or scanning open fields for movement. Their widespread presence makes them one of the easiest raptors to observe in the wild.
Red-tailed Hawks are monogamous and often maintain long-term pair bonds. They construct large stick nests high in tall trees, cliff ledges, or even man-made structures. Both sexes participate in building the nest, which is lined with bark and fresh foliage. The female typically lays two to three eggs, and both parents share incubation duties. After hatching, the female broods the young while the male provides food. Fledging occurs about six weeks after hatching.
These versatile raptors primarily prey on small mammals, such as rodents and rabbits. They also consume birds, reptiles, and occasionally fish or large insects. Red-tailed Hawks are opportunistic hunters, often seen perched along roadsides or soaring over open fields, scanning for prey. Their varied diet allows them to thrive in diverse habitats.
Red-tailed Hawk populations are stable and widespread across North America. They have benefited from forest fragmentation, which creates the mixed open and wooded areas they prefer. In some regions, their increase has been at the expense of other raptor species. Overall, they are considered a conservation success story, adapting well to human-altered landscapes.
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: Partial migrant; northern populations leave in late fall.
The Cooper’s Hawk is a medium-sized raptor found throughout North America, from southern Canada to northern Mexico. It thrives in woodlands, suburban areas, and parks, often adapting well to environments where trees provide cover. This hawk has a sleek build with broad, rounded wings and a long, banded tail that helps it navigate through dense trees.
Its plumage is blue-gray on the back, with reddish barring on the chest and belly. Adults have striking red eyes, while juveniles display yellowish eyes and streaked brown plumage. Cooper’s Hawks are commonly confused with Sharp-shinned Hawks due to their similar body shape, though they are noticeably larger.
They are often seen flying low through wooded areas, making sharp turns as they move. Though they are more reclusive in deep forests, they are increasingly spotted in residential areas, sometimes perched near bird feeders or gliding along tree lines in search of activity.
Cooper’s Hawks prefer nesting in deciduous or mixed forests, often near forest edges. They build stick nests high in trees, sometimes reusing old nests. The female lays three to five eggs and takes the lead in incubation, while the male provides food. Both parents are involved in feeding the chicks, which fledge after about four to five weeks.
These hawks primarily prey on medium-sized birds, such as robins and jays, and small mammals like squirrels and mice. They are adept hunters, using stealth and agility to navigate through dense cover and surprise their prey. Their hunting technique often involves rapid, low flights through forests.
Historically, Cooper’s Hawks faced declines due to habitat loss and pesticide exposure. With the reduction of harmful pesticide use and increased forest maturation, their populations have recovered. They are now commonly found in both rural and urban areas, adapting well to human presence. Continued habitat conservation supports their stable population trends.
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
- Migratory behavior: Migrates south in late fall; returns in early spring.
The Sharp-shinned Hawk is a small but agile bird of prey, commonly found in dense forests across North America. It breeds in Canada and the northern United States before migrating south in the fall, with some populations reaching as far as Central America.
This hawk is known for its sleek, compact body, long tail, and short, rounded wings that allow it to manoeuvre swiftly through wooded areas. Its plumage features blue-gray feathers on the back, a rusty-barred chest, and piercing yellow eyes that give it an intense expression. Sharp-shinned Hawks can be difficult to spot in thick forested habitats, but they are sometimes seen darting through backyards, especially during migration.
Their quick, agile flight makes them well-suited for weaving between trees, and they are often mistaken for their close relative, the Cooper’s Hawk. Though they are secretive in nature, they occasionally visit suburban areas, particularly during migration seasons.
Sharp-shinned Hawks build their nests in dense coniferous or mixed forests, often choosing secluded sites high in trees. The nest is a platform of sticks lined with softer materials. Females lay three to eight eggs and primarily handle incubation, while males supply food. After hatching, both parents feed the chicks until they fledge about a month later.
These small, agile hawks predominantly hunt small birds, such as sparrows and finches. They employ surprise attacks, darting through dense foliage to catch their prey. Occasionally, they may also consume small mammals and insects. Their hunting prowess is evident in their swift, acrobatic flight patterns.
Sharp-shinned Hawk populations faced declines in the mid-20th century due to pesticide use. Since the banning of harmful chemicals like DDT, their numbers have rebounded. They are now commonly observed during migration periods, especially in areas with abundant songbird populations. Ongoing monitoring ensures their continued conservation success.
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
- Migratory behavior: Leaves in early spring; returns in late fall.
The Rough-legged Hawk is a winter visitor to the lower 48 states, spending summers breeding in the Arctic tundra. It migrates south in the fall, often settling in open fields, marshes, and prairies where it can be seen hovering in search of movement below. One of its defining features is the feathering that extends all the way down its legs, a trait that helps it stay warm in its cold northern breeding grounds.
This hawk comes in light and dark color morphs, but most have a mottled brown and white body with a pale head and dark wrist patches on the wings. When soaring, its wings appear long and broad, with a distinctive pattern that helps differentiate it from other hawks.
Though they are not present in the U.S. year-round, they are a familiar sight in winter, especially in wide, open landscapes where they can perch and scan for activity.
Rough-legged Hawks nest in the Arctic tundra, selecting cliff ledges or rocky outcrops for their nests. They construct sizable nests from sticks and line them with softer materials like moss or grass. The female lays three to five eggs and primarily handles incubation, while the male provides food. After hatching, both parents feed the chicks until they fledge approximately five to six weeks later.
These hawks primarily feed on small mammals, especially lemmings and voles during the breeding season. In wintering areas, their diet shifts to include mice, shrews, and occasionally birds. They often hunt by hovering in place, scanning the ground below for prey before making a swift descent to capture it.
Rough-legged Hawk populations are generally stable, benefiting from the vastness of their breeding and wintering habitats. However, they are sensitive to fluctuations in small mammal populations, which can impact their breeding success. Conservation efforts focus on monitoring population trends and ensuring the preservation of open habitats essential for their survival.
5. Northern Goshawk
- Scientific name: Accipiter gentilis
- Life span: Up to 15 years
- Size: 24-29 in (61-74 cm)
- Weight: 1.5-3 lbs (680-1360g)
- Wingspan: 45-52 in (114-132 cm)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and rare
- Migratory behavior: Mostly resident; some migrate south in fall.
The Northern Goshawk is a powerful and elusive raptor that inhabits forests across the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia. In North America, it is found primarily in the northern U.S. and Canada, with some populations extending into mountainous regions farther south.
This hawk is known for its striking appearance: dark slate-gray plumage on the back, a pale, finely barred underside, and piercing red or orange eyes. A distinct white stripe above the eye gives it a fierce, intense expression. Northern Goshawks are built for speed and agility, with broad wings and a long tail that allow them to weave through dense forests.
Unlike more commonly seen hawks, they are secretive and tend to stay hidden in thick woodland areas, making sightings rare. They are most often observed in remote forested regions, especially during the breeding season, when they become particularly territorial and protective of their nesting sites.
Northern Goshawks nest in mature forests, favouring large tracts with dense canopy cover. They build substantial stick nests high in trees, often reusing and refurbishing old nests. The female lays two to four eggs and primarily handles incubation, while the male provides food. Both parents fiercely defend the nest, and the young fledge approximately five to six weeks after hatching.
These formidable raptors have a diverse diet, preying on birds like grouse and corvids, as well as mammals such as rabbits and squirrels. They are known for their powerful hunting skills, often pursuing prey through dense forests with agility and speed.
Northern Goshawk populations are generally stable, though they are sensitive to habitat changes. In some areas, logging and deforestation have led to declines. Conservation efforts focus on preserving mature forest habitats and monitoring populations to ensure their continued health. They are considered indicators of forest ecosystem integrity.
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: Migratory and rare
- Migratory behavior: Departs late August to October for South America.
The Swainson’s Hawk is a long-distance migrant that breeds in western North America before traveling to South America for the winter, covering thousands of miles each year. It prefers open landscapes, such as grasslands and agricultural fields, where it can be seen soaring with its long, pointed wings.
This hawk’s plumage varies, but most individuals have a brown back, a pale underside, and a dark chest that contrasts with their lighter belly. Some morphs appear darker overall, while others have strikingly pale heads and underparts. Unlike many hawks, Swainson’s Hawks often form large groups during migration, sometimes numbering in the thousands as they head south.
They are most commonly seen in the western United States during the summer, perched on fence posts or gliding effortlessly over open fields. Their annual migration is one of the most impressive of any North American raptor, drawing attention from birdwatchers along their travel routes.
Swainson’s Hawks build their nests in isolated trees or shrubs, often in open prairies or agricultural areas. The nest is constructed from sticks and lined with softer materials. Females lay two to three eggs, with both parents sharing incubation duties. After hatching, the chicks are fed by both parents and fledge after about four to five weeks.
These hawks have a varied diet that changes seasonally. During the breeding season, they primarily hunt small mammals like ground squirrels. In the non-breeding season, especially during migration, they switch to a diet dominated by insects, particularly grasshoppers and dragonflies.
Swainson’s Hawk populations faced significant declines due to pesticide use in their South American wintering grounds. Conservation efforts, including international cooperation to reduce pesticide exposure, have led to population recoveries. They are now commonly seen soaring in large flocks during migration, a testament to successful conservation initiatives.
7. 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
- Migratory behavior: Adults depart as early as July; juveniles by August.
The Ferruginous Hawk is the largest hawk in North America and is primarily found in open landscapes of the western United States and Canada. It is a year-round resident in some areas but migrates south in the winter. Its name comes from the rust-coloured feathers on its back and legs, which contrast with its white underparts.
Ferruginous Hawks have long, broad wings and a large head, giving them a distinct silhouette when soaring. Some individuals display a darker color morph, appearing rich brown overall. These hawks prefer expansive grasslands and deserts, avoiding densely wooded areas. Unlike many raptors, they are often seen perched on the ground rather than in trees.
While they are less commonly spotted in suburban areas, they are frequently seen soaring over prairies or perched on fence posts, surveying the landscape. Their striking appearance and preference for wide-open spaces make them a notable species in the western U.S.
Ferruginous Hawks prefer nesting in open landscapes such as grasslands and deserts. They build large nests from sticks and other materials, placing them in isolated trees, on cliff ledges, or even on artificial structures like power poles. The female lays three to four eggs, and both parents share incubation duties. After hatching, the chicks are fed by both parents and fledge after about 38 to 50 days.
These hawks primarily prey on small to medium-sized mammals, including ground squirrels, jackrabbits, and prairie dogs. They may also consume reptiles and birds when available. Ferruginous Hawks often hunt by soaring over open areas or perching on elevated vantage points, scanning for movement below before making a swift attack.
Ferruginous Hawk populations have experienced declines due to habitat loss from agriculture, grazing, and other land-use changes. Conservation efforts focus on preserving native grasslands, maintaining healthy prey populations, and mitigating the impacts of human activities. Sustainable ranching practices, particularly those that conserve prairie dog towns, can be effective in supporting Ferruginous Hawk habitats.
8. 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: Migrates south in September; returns in April.
The Broad-winged Hawk is a small but stocky raptor best known for its impressive migration. It breeds in eastern North America, from Canada to the southeastern U.S., before migrating in large groups to Central and South America for the winter. This species has dark brown upperparts and a barred, pale underside, with a noticeable black-and-white banded tail.
Broad-winged Hawks are most commonly seen in forests, where they stay well-hidden among the trees. However, during migration, they form massive flocks called “kettles,” where hundreds or even thousands of birds soar together. These gatherings are particularly visible in the fall when they funnel through key migration corridors.
While they are not as commonly seen outside of migration periods, they are widespread during the breeding season in forested areas, where they tend to stay high in the canopy. Their yearly migrations are a major highlight for birdwatchers across North America.
Broad-winged Hawks construct their nests in deciduous or mixed forests, often choosing sites high in the canopy. The nests are built from sticks and lined with softer materials like leaves and bark. Females lay two to three eggs, and both parents participate in incubation and feeding the chicks. The young fledge approximately five to six weeks after hatching.
These hawks have a varied diet that includes small mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and insects. They often hunt from perches, scanning the forest floor for prey before swooping down to capture it. During migration, they may also feed opportunistically on abundant food sources encountered along their route.
Broad-winged Hawk populations are currently stable, benefiting from large tracts of contiguous forest for breeding. However, they are vulnerable to habitat fragmentation and deforestation. Conservation efforts emphasize the importance of preserving forested habitats and monitoring population trends, especially in areas facing significant land-use changes.
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
- Migratory behavior: Partial migrant; northern birds leave in fall.
The Northern Harrier is a unique hawk that favours open habitats such as marshes, grasslands, and coastal plains. It is found across North America, breeding in northern regions before migrating south for the winter. Unlike most hawks, the Northern Harrier has an owl-like facial disk, which helps it detect movement below.
It has long, slender wings, a long tail, and a distinctive white patch on its rump. Males are pale gray, while females and juveniles are brown with streaked underparts. Northern Harriers are often seen flying low over fields, gliding smoothly with their wings held in a slight V-shape. They are one of the few hawks that rely on both sight and hearing to locate movement.
These birds are widespread, but their preference for open landscapes makes them more commonly observed in rural and undeveloped areas. Their distinctive flight style and low, steady gliding make them easy to identify in the field.
Northern Harriers nest on the ground in open habitats such as marshes, grasslands, and wetlands. They create nests from sticks and grasses, often concealed among dense vegetation. The female lays four to six eggs and is primarily responsible for incubation, while the male provides food. After hatching, both parents feed the chicks, which fledge after about four to five weeks.
These harriers primarily feed on small mammals, particularly voles, but their diet also includes birds, reptiles, and amphibians. They hunt by flying low over open fields with their wings held in a V-shape, using their keen eyesight and hearing to detect prey before dropping swiftly to capture it.
Northern Harrier populations have experienced declines due to the loss of wetland and grassland habitats. Conservation efforts focus on preserving and restoring these open habitats, implementing land management practices that support their nesting and foraging needs, and monitoring populations to ensure their continued survival.
Where to find Hawks in Washington
If you want to see hawks in Washington, you’re in luck! These birds of prey can be found across the state, from the dense forests of the Cascades to the open farmland of eastern Washington. But spotting them takes a little patience and the right approach.
The best way to find hawks is to head to open areas with good visibility. Bring binoculars and scan the sky, tree lines, and fence posts. Hawks often perch high, waiting for prey, or circle overhead, riding the wind. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal, as hawks are most active then.
Here are four great spots to see hawks in Washington:
- Skagit Valley – A prime spot for raptors, especially in winter when Rough-legged Hawks and other birds of prey gather.
- Columbia National Wildlife Refuge – Wide-open landscapes make it easy to spot Swainson’s Hawks and Red-tailed Hawks hunting.
- Olympic National Park – Forested areas provide a home for the elusive Northern Goshawk.
- Snoqualmie Pass – A great migration corridor where you can see hawks soaring through the mountains.
Wherever you go, keep your eyes up—there’s always a chance to see one of these incredible birds in action!
Conclusion
Hawks in Washington play a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance, serving as both predators and indicators of environmental health. Species such as the Red-tailed Hawk, Cooper’s Hawk, and Sharp-shinned Hawk thrive in the state’s diverse habitats, from dense forests to open grasslands.
Their presence not only controls rodent and small bird populations but also reflects the overall health of ecosystems. However, challenges like habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change threaten their populations, underscoring the need for continued conservation efforts. Initiatives such as habitat preservation, public education, and legal protections under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act are crucial for their survival.
By fostering coexistence and supporting conservation programs, Washingtonians can ensure that these majestic raptors continue to soar across the skies, enriching the state’s natural heritage for generations to come.
