Hawks in Colorado: where to see them and how to identify them

The eastern plains from Denver to the Kansas border offer the best open-country habitat for hawks like Ferruginous and Swainson's. The Front Range foothills, especially around Boulder and Colorado Springs, hold Red-tailed and Cooper's Hawks. In the San Luis Valley and along the Arkansas River, you can spot Rough-legged Hawks in winter. Start with prairie dog towns and agricultural fields where hawks perch on power poles and fence posts. For more on habitat, see our Colorado wildlife page.

Spring and fall migration, from March to May and September to November, bring the highest numbers and variety. Early morning (7–10 a.m.) and late afternoon (4–6 p.m.) are the most active times for hunting. Summer residents like Swainson's Hawks are easiest to spot during the breeding season in June and July. Winter brings Rough-legged Hawks and Ferruginous Hawks to the plains. Plan your trip for clear, calm days for the best visibility.

Focus on size, shape, and underwing patterns. Red-tailed Hawks show a dark belly band and a rusty red tail from above. Swainson's Hawks have a dark chest and white belly in light morph, with long, pointed wings. Ferruginous Hawks are large with mostly white underparts and rusty leg feathers. Cooper's Hawks are smaller with a rounded tail and accipiter proportions. Compare with falcons and eagles by checking wing shape and flight style. For a full identification guide, see our hawks page.

See our state animal guide for the next step.

Red-tailed Hawk: year-round, adaptable, often perched roadside. Swainson's Hawk: summer visitor, often in large groups. Ferruginous Hawk: winter or resident, open plains. Rough-legged Hawk: winter only, hovers over fields. Cooper's Hawk: forest edges, known for bird hunting. Sharp-shinned Hawk: similar but smaller, rare east of mountains. Each species has distinct habitat preferences that can help narrow your search.

Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge near Denver has reliable Red-tailed and Swainson's. Barr Lake State Park offers a hawk watch platform. Pawnee National Grassland in the northeast is excellent for Ferruginous and Rough-legged Hawks. Use the trails at Roxborough State Park for Cooper's Hawks. These spots are frequently visited by birders and offer good access. Remember to bring binoculars and a field guide.