Hawks Nesting in Alabama: Where to Spot Nests and How to Identify Them

Which hawk species nest in Alabama?

Alabama hosts five nesting hawk species: Red-shouldered, Red-tailed, Cooper's, Broad-winged, and the occasional Sharp-shinned. Red-shouldered hawks are the most common nesters in wet bottomlands, while Red-tails prefer open woodlands. For more on hawk species, see ourred-tailed hawkspage.

In Alabama, hawks sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where in the state sightings are most likely. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.

When is hawk nesting season in Alabama?

Nesting begins in late February for Red-shouldered and Red-tailed hawks, peaking in April and May. Most young fledge by June. Early morning (7-10 AM) offers the best odds of seeing adults carrying nest material or food. Avoid midday heat when hawks are less active.

Where are the best places to see nesting hawks in Alabama?

Start with Bankhead National Forest (northwest), the Sipsey Wilderness, and the Mobile-Tensaw Delta (south). Look for stick nests high in crotches of mature oaks and pines. For more Alabama birding spots, check ourAlabama's birding hotspotspage.

How can you identify a hawk nest?

Hawk nests are bulky platforms of sticks, 2-4 feet across, lined with bark and green sprigs. They're usually 30-60 feet up in a tree crotch. Whitewash (droppings) on the trunk below is a giveaway. Compare with crow nests (smaller, no whitewash) and squirrel dreys (leaves, not sticks).

See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.

What are easy identification markers for hawks compared to similar birds?

Red-tailed: broad, rounded wings and a reddish tail (adults). Red-shouldered: checkered black-and-white wing patterns and a thin white band on the tail. Broad-winged: compact body with bold black-and-white tail bands. Cooper's: long tail with dark bands, rounded head. Vultures hold wings in a V and wobble; hawks fly with flat wings and steady flaps.

How can you distinguish hawks from falcons and eagles?

Falcons (like the Peregrine) have long, pointed wings and fast, direct flight. Eagles are much larger with very broad wings and a slow wingbeat. Hawks have rounded wings and a fan-shaped tail. For more on eagle nesting, see ourhawk nesting guidefor comparisons.

Show your hawk pride with bird-themed gear

Once you've spotted a nest, celebrate with practical hawk gear from Easy Street Markets.

### Peregrine Falcon Retro Graphic Tee

A classic retro design that works for birding outings or casual wear.Check Price and Availability

### 5X Hawk Sticker Set (5 pieces)

Five durable stickers featuring different hawks and birds of prey. Great for field journals or gear.Check Price and Availability

### Vintage Hawk Retro Hawk Bird T-Shirt

A vintage-style tee that matches the feel of a day in the field.Check Price and Availability

For more art, browse ourbird wall artcollection.

### Hawk Tarot Card T-Shirt

A strong match for this wildlife page and an easy next click after the guide.Check Price and Availability

Do red-shouldered hawks nest in Alabama?

Yes. Red-shouldered hawks are the most common nesting hawk in Alabama, especially in wet forests, swamps, and along rivers. They often reuse the same nest year after year. Look for them in the Mobile-Tensaw Delta and the Coosa River floodplain.

How long do hawk chicks stay in the nest?

Hawk chicks fledge (leave the nest) at about 6-7 weeks after hatching. They stay near the nest for another 2-4 weeks, learning to hunt. If you see young hawks in late May or June, give them space and watch from a distance.

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