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

1. Where in the state are hawk sightings most likely?

Hawks are found throughout Colorado, but your best bets are the eastern plains (Pawnee National Grassland, Comanche National Grassland) and the Front Range foothills. These areas offer open terrain perfect for hunting. The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge near Denver is especially reliable for year-round sightings of red-tailed hawks and Swainson's hawks. For higher elevation species like the ferruginous hawk, head to the shortgrass prairies east of Colorado Springs. Check ourColorado wildlife pagefor more regional tips.

2. What is the best season and time of day to spot hawks?

Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are prime migration periods when you'll see the highest numbers. Many hawks pass through the state along the Rocky Mountain flyway. In summer, resident species are active but can be harder to spot in the heat. Early morning (dawn to 10 a.m.) is the best time of day when hawks start hunting after roosting. Late afternoon also works, especially during cooler months.

3. How can you identify hawks in Colorado compared to similar species?

Start with the tail shape: buteos (like red-tailed hawks) have broad, rounded tails while accipiters (like Cooper's hawks) have long, banded tails. Look at the wing shape in flight: buteos soar with wings held in a shallow V, accipiters flap more. The red-tailed hawk has a rusty red upper tail (visible in adults). Compare with similar eagles and falcons by size and flight style. For a handy reference, see ourhawk identification guide.

See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.

4. What are the most common hawk species you'll see in Colorado?

The most frequently seen species are the red-tailed hawk (year-round), Swainson's hawk (summer), and Cooper's hawk (wooded areas). The ferruginous hawk is a specialty of the eastern plains in winter and spring. Rough-legged hawks show up in winter from the Arctic. The sharp-shinned hawk is a smaller, fast-flying accipiter often seen at feeders. Knowing these common species helps narrow down your ID.

5. Where should you go for the best hawk watching in Colorado?

Top locations include the Pawnee National Grassland (especially along the Pawnee Buttes trail), the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, and the areas around Barr Lake State Park. In the mountains, look for hawks along the edges of meadows in Rocky Mountain National Park. The annual Hawkwatch at the Weld County Hawk Watch site near Greeley is a must in September. For migration, the ridges near Golden and Morrison can be productive.

6. Show your hawk pride with Easy Street Markets gear

Once you've spotted these birds, carry a piece of that experience home. Our Peregrine Falcon Retro Graphic Tee captures the speed and grace of a falcon. For a more subtle nod, the 5X Hawk Sticker Set makes a great addition to a water bottle or field notebook. And the Hawk Tarot Card T-Shirt blends art with birding.

### Peregrine Falcon Retro Graphic Tee

A classic tee that shows off one of Colorado's fastest birds. Soft cotton, vintage print. Great for casual birders.Check Price and Availability

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

Five durable vinyl stickers featuring different hawks. Perfect for decorating gear or a field notebook.Check Price and Availability

### Hawk Tarot Card T-Shirt

A unique design combining birding with mysticism. Soft fabric, runs true to size.Check Price and Availability

For more options, browse ourbird wall artor check out our fullhawk collection.

7. Frequently asked questions about hawks in Colorado

**What hawk species are most common in Colorado?** Red-tailed hawks are the most common year-round, followed by Swainson's hawks in summer and Cooper's hawks in wooded areas.

**Where can I see a ferruginous hawk in Colorado?** Your best odds are on the eastern plains, especially the Pawnee National Grassland, during winter and early spring.

**Do hawks live in Denver?** Yes. Cooper's hawks and red-tailed hawks nest in city parks and along the South Platte River corridor.

**What time of year do hawks migrate through Colorado?** Peak migration is mid-April to mid-May in spring and late August through October in fall.

**How do I tell a hawk from an eagle?** Hawks are smaller, with shorter wings relative to their body. Eagles have much larger, broader wings and a more massive bill.

See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.