What Types of Hawks in Virginia

Virginia is home to several species of hawks, each adapted to different environments across the state. Here are some of the most common types of hawks you can find in Virginia:

1. Red-tailed Hawk
   • One of the most widespread hawks in North America, the Red-tailed Hawk is easily recognized by its reddish-brown tail and broad wings. It can be found in a variety of habitats, from forests to open fields, and is known for hunting small mammals like rodents and rabbits.
2. Cooper’s Hawk
   • This medium-sized hawk is known for its agility in wooded areas, where it hunts smaller birds. Cooper’s Hawks are often found near forests and suburban areas, using their short wings and long tail to navigate through dense trees while chasing prey.
3. Sharp-shinned Hawk
   • Similar in appearance to the Cooper’s Hawk but smaller, the Sharp-shinned Hawk is also a forest-dweller. It preys primarily on small birds and is known for its quick, agile flight. It’s a common sight at bird feeders, where it hunts unsuspecting songbirds.
4. Broad-winged Hawk
   • A smaller hawk with distinctive, broad wings, the Broad-winged Hawk migrates in large groups called “kettles.” It breeds in Virginia’s forests during the spring and summer, feeding on small mammals, amphibians, and insects. They are most often seen during migration in the fall.
5. Red-shouldered Hawk
   • Found in wooded areas near water, the Red-shouldered Hawk has reddish-brown coloring on its chest and shoulders and is known for its loud, distinct call. It preys on small mammals, amphibians, and reptiles, often seen soaring over forests and wetlands in Virginia.
6. Northern Harrier
   • This medium-sized hawk is commonly found in open fields and marshes, hunting by gliding low over the ground. Northern Harriers are unique among hawks because they rely heavily on their sense of hearing, aided by their owl-like facial discs, to locate prey.
7. Rough-legged Hawk
   • A winter visitor to Virginia, the Rough-legged Hawk is known for its feathered legs, which help it survive in cold temperatures. It can often be seen in open fields or agricultural areas during the colder months, hovering as it searches for small mammals.
8. Osprey
   • Though technically a raptor specialized in catching fish, the Osprey is frequently mistaken for a hawk. Found near rivers, lakes, and coastal areas, this bird has a striking white belly and dark wings and is often seen diving for fish in the water.

These hawks play a vital role in Virginia’s ecosystems, helping to control populations of small animals and maintaining the balance in both forested and open areas.