Hawks in Alabama: Identifying Their Calls and Where to Listen
Yes, several hawk species are common in Alabama. Their calls vary from the piercing scream of the Red-tailed Hawk to the high-pitched whistle of the Broad-winged. Listen for them in forests, fields, and along highways. Start by learning the Red-shouldered Hawk's common call, which is often heard near water.
Yes, several hawk species are common in Alabama. Their calls vary from the piercing scream of the Red-tailed Hawk to the high-pitched whistle of the Broad-winged. Listen for them in forests, fields, and along highways. Start by learning the Red-shouldered Hawk's common call, which is often heard near water.
1. What hawk calls are most common in Alabama?
The two calls you are most likely to hear are the Red-shouldered Hawk's loud, repetitive 'kee-ah' and the Red-tailed Hawk's hoarse, descending scream. Broad-winged Hawks give a high-pitched, thin whistle, especially during migration. These three species cover the vast majority of hawk sounds across the state.
2. When is the best time to hear hawks in Alabama?
Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are peak times for vocal activity because of courtship and migration. Early morning, from sunrise to about 10 a.m., is when hawks are most vocal. Winter brings quieter calls from resident Red-shouldered and Red-tailed Hawks, but they still call regularly.
3. Where in Alabama should you listen for hawk calls?
Your best odds are in the Talladega National Forest, Bankhead National Forest, and along the Tennessee River valley. Red-shouldered Hawks stick near rivers and swamps, while Red-tailed Hawks prefer open fields and highway edges. For the best experience, try the Sipsey Wilderness or Oak Mountain State Park.
4. How can you identify different hawk species by sound?
Focus on pitch and pattern. Red-tailed Hawk calls are a hoarse, two to three second scream that drops in pitch. Red-shouldered Hawks repeat a clear, two-syllable 'kee-ah' much faster. Broad-winged Hawks give a single, thin, high-pitched whistle that lasts about half a second. Coopers and Sharp-shinned Hawks are usually silent except near nests, where they give a sharp 'kak-kak-kak'.
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5. Red-tailed Hawk vs. Red-shouldered Hawk: how to tell them apart by call?
This is the most common ID challenge. Red-tailed calls are rougher, longer, and descend in pitch. Red-shouldered calls are clearer, shorter, and have a rising or even pitch. If you hear a repeated, emphatic 'kee-ah' that carries a long distance, you are likely hearing a Red-shouldered. For more visual ID tips, check out our full guide on/animals/hawk.
6. What other birds of prey in Alabama sound similar?
Fish Crows can mimic Red-shouldered Hawk calls, and Blue Jays sometimes produce a hawk-like scream. Also, listen for American Kestrels, which give a high, rapid 'killy-killy-killy' that can be confused with hawk calls. Practice with online recordings from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology to sharpen your ear. For a deeper dive into Alabama species, visit our/wildlife/alabamapage.
7. Where can I study hawk sounds and calls?
The best free resource is the Cornell Lab's Macaulay Library, which has recordings of every hawk species in Alabama. You can also use birding apps like Merlin or iBird to practice. For hands-on learning, try comparing the sounds on our dedicated sounds page at/wildlife/alabama/hawk/sounds.
8. How to bring hawk watching and listening into your home
Once you have learned the calls, you might want to keep the experience close. Displaying hawk-themed items can remind you of the sounds and sights you have enjoyed. Consider these products from Easy Street Markets:
### Peregrine Falcon Retro Graphic Tee
A comfortable tee featuring a classic raptor design. Great for birding trips or casual wear.Check Price and Availability
### 5X Hawk Sticker Set (5 pieces)
Decorate your gear or notebook with these bird of prey stickers. Each set includes five different hawk designs.Check Price and Availability
### Hawk Tarot Card T-Shirt
A unique design that combines mysticism and raptors. Soft fabric and a conversation starter.Check Price and Availability
For more hawk-themed art and decor, browse our/art-printscollection.
9. Frequently asked questions about hawk sounds in Alabama
**Do hawks call at night?** Generally no, but occasionally you might hear a Red-tailed Hawk calling under a bright streetlight. **What does a juvenile hawk sound like?** Juvenile Red-tailed Hawks make a high-pitched, repetitive 'whistle' that changes as they mature. **Can I attract hawks by playing calls?** It is possible, but best done sparingly to avoid disturbing them. **Which hawk call is most often mistaken for an eagle?** The Red-tailed Hawk's scream is famously used in movies for eagle calls, so it is a common mix-up.
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