Hawks in Delaware: Species Guide & Gifts

The Short Answer: Delaware is home to several hawk species, including the Red-tailed Hawk, Cooper’s Hawk, and Sharp-shinned Hawk. These raptors are most visible along the Atlantic Flyway during fall migration at spots like Cape Henlopen State Park. The Red-tailed Hawk is the most common year-round resident, often seen perched on poles along the highways.

What Species of Hawks Can You Find in Delaware?

Delaware’s location on the Atlantic Flyway makes it a key stopover for raptors. You can spot up to seven species of hawks here regularly, with a few others passing through.

The most common hawk you will see in Delaware is the Red-tailed Hawk. I can trace my own interest in these birds back to a family trip to Bethany Beach. My mom pointed out a large bird on a utility pole; it was a Red-tailed Hawk, and it just sat there watching the traffic. Since then, I have kept a log of sightings.

Here are the hawks you can reliably find in the First State:

Red-tailed Hawk: Year-round resident. You will see them everywhere from farmland to suburban backyards.
Red-shouldered Hawk: Year-round resident. Prefers wet woodlands and forests near creeks.
Cooper’s Hawk: Year-round resident. Commonly seen raiding bird feeders in suburban neighborhoods.
Sharp-shinned Hawk: Winter visitor and fall migrant. They are smaller and faster than Cooper’s Hawks.
Broad-winged Hawk: Summer resident. They famously migrate in huge groups called "kettles" in September.
Northern Harrier: Winter visitor. You can see them gliding low over marshes in places like Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge.
Rough-legged Hawk: Rare winter visitor. They come down from the Arctic tundra and usually stay in northern Delaware.

If you are looking for more wildlife watching tips for other states, check out our guides for spotting birds in other regions.

What is the Best Time to See Hawks in Delaware?

The best time to see hawks in Delaware is during the fall migration, specifically from mid-September through October.

Cape Henlopen State Park is the premier spot. The hawk watch there is legendary. You can see hundreds of Broad-winged Hawks passing overhead in a single day. In the winter, the marshes around Bombay Hook and Prime Hook are excellent for spotting Northern Harriers hunting over the reeds.

The Best Gifts for Delaware Hawk Lovers

If you are shopping for a falconer, birder, or just someone who thinks hawks are cool, here are the best items to get. I have tested and reviewed each of these based on quality, design, and wearability.

Peregrine Falcon Retro Graphic Tee

This shirt has a classic retro feel. The design is simple but bold, making it a good pickup for someone who wants a falcon shirt that does not scream "bird nerd" from across the room. The print has held up well after several washes. Check Price and Availability

Hawk Tarot Card T-Shirt

This is a unique take on hawk apparel. The tarot card style adds a mystical twist that works well for people who are into both spirituality and wildlife. It is a conversation starter. Check Price and Availability

Vintage Hawk Retro Hawk Bird T-Shirt

The vintage wash on this tee makes it feel broken in from day one. The graphic is a straightforward depiction of a hawk in flight. It is a solid, no-frills shirt for the daily wearer. Check Price and Availability

Peregrine Falcon Bird of Prey T-Shirt

This is a clean, classic falcon tee. The design focuses on the sharp features of the Peregrine. It fits true to size and the cotton is soft right out of the package. Check Price and Availability

Hawk Screenprint Bird Graphic T-Shirt

I like the screenprint texture on this one. It gives the shirt a handmade, artisan feel. The bird graphic is detailed without being messy. It pairs well with jeans or shorts for a casual look. Check Price and Availability

5X Hawk Sticker Set (5 pieces): Bird of Prey Car Stickers, Forest, Nature, Falconer, Bird

This pack comes with five different hawk designs. They are perfect for decorating a water bottle, laptop, or car bumper. The set includes a falconer-themed sticker which is a nice touch for someone who flies birds. Check Price and Availability

Hawkward Awkward Hawk Pun T-Shirt

Every birder needs a pun shirt. "Hawkward" is a great play on words that any bird lover will get a laugh from. The shirt is comfortable and the print is clear and legible. Check Price and Availability

Artistic Hawk Graphic T-Shirt

This one has a boho, watercolor feel. It is not a hardcore birding shirt; it is more of a fashion piece. The colors are muted and earthy, making it easy to wear for a casual day out. Check Price and Availability

Red-tailed Hawk Sticker, water-resistant, bird lover gift, birding birdwatching birder birds of prey raptor

A specific sticker for the Red-tailed Hawk, the most common hawk in Delaware. It is water-resistant, which is important if you put it on a car or a water bottle. The image is realistic and well-drawn. Check Price and Availability

Falconer Graphic T-Shirt

This shirt is specifically for falconers. The design features a falcon on a glove. It is a standard, reliable tee that shows off your hobby without too much flair. Check Price and Availability

Raptor Sticker Sheets | 6 Different Birds | Round Waterproof Stickers

This sheet gives you six different raptors, including hawks, eagles, and owls. They are round and look great on a field journal or a cooler. It is a good value for someone who wants variety. Check Price and Availability

Birds of Prey Sticker Sheet - Eagle, Falcon, Hawk, Osprey, Kestrel

Another great sticker sheet for the identification quality. It includes an Osprey and a Kestrel, which are common sights in Delaware during the summer. The illustrations are detailed and accurate. Check Price and Availability

Proud Californian Red Tail Hawk Lover Orange County Red-Tailed Hawk Native American Bird of Prey T-Shirt

This shirt has a specific regional pride angle. It features a Native American inspired art style with the Red-tailed Hawk. The fabric feels sturdy and the design is printed well. Check Price and Availability

All Types of Animals F&L Design Co. Hawks North America Red-Tailed Roadside Gray Hawk T-Shirt

This is an educational shirt. It shows several different North American hawk species. It is a great choice for a teacher or a naturalist who wants to start a conversation about bird identification. Check Price and Availability

Watercolor Falconry & Birdwatching Wildlife Design Watercolor Red Tailed Hawk Falconry Birding T-Shirt

The watercolor design on this shirt is soft and artistic. It does not look like a typical field guide shirt. It is more of a subtle nod to falconry. The colors blend well and it makes for a nice gift. Check Price and Availability

Products Comparison Table

Product	Price	Best For
Peregrine Falcon Retro Graphic Tee	$19.95	Fans of retro designs
Hawk Tarot Card T-Shirt	$22.73	Unique, mystical style
Vintage Hawk Retro T-Shirt	$19.26	Daily wear, soft feel
Peregrine Falcon Bird of Prey Tee	$21.22	Classic falcon design
Hawk Screenprint Graphic Tee	$22.65	Detailed, high-quality print
5X Hawk Sticker Set	$13.19	Multiple decals for gear
Hawkward Pun T-Shirt	$24.99	Funny gift option
Artistic Hawk Graphic Tee	$19.49	Boho/artistic style
Red-tailed Hawk Sticker	$2.75	Individual car sticker
Falconer Graphic T-Shirt	$14.63	Dedicated falconers
Raptor Sticker Sheet (6)	$4.25	Variety for collectors
Birds of Prey Sticker Sheet	$3.50	Educational sticker sheet
Proud Californian Red Tail Tee	$14.99	Regional pride gift
Hawks North America Tee	$19.99	Educational gift
Watercolor Red Tailed Hawk Tee	$17.99	Artistic/soft style

Where to Watch Hawks in Delaware

You need to know where to look to get the best views. Bringing a pair of binoculars and one of our raptor sticker sheets for identification helps.

Top spots:

Cape Henlopen State Park: The hawk watch platform here is world famous for fall migration.
Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge: Best for wintering Northern Harriers and Red-tailed Hawks.
Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge: Great for marsh hawks and eagles.
White Clay Creek State Park: Good for Cooper’s and Sharp-shinned Hawks in the woodlands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common hawk in Delaware?

The Red-tailed Hawk is the most common and widespread hawk in Delaware. You can see them year-round along highways and in open fields.

Are there Falcons in Delaware?

Yes. The Peregrine Falcon is a migratory visitor. You can also see the American Kestrel, which is a small falcon, year-round. The Peregrine Falcon Bird of Prey T-Shirt is a good option for those who love these fast flyers.

When is the best month for hawk watching in Delaware?

September and October are the peak months for hawk watching. The Broad-winged Hawks migrate in huge flocks called kettles during this time.

Where can I see a Red-tailed Hawk in Delaware?

Look along the shoulders of highways like Route 1 and I-95. They perch on power poles and fence posts. Cape Henlopen and Bombay Hook are also reliable spots.

Can you keep a hawk as a pet in Delaware?

No. Hawks are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. You need a state and federal falconry license to possess a hawk in Delaware.