11 Types of Hawks in Minnesota
Yes, hawks are a prominent and powerful part of Minnesota's birdlife, found across the state's forests, prairies, and cities. These expert hunters are a common sight year-round, with many species also passing through during migration. This guide covers the common kinds of hawks you will encounter in the North Star State.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated July 2, 2026.
- 8
- species recorded
- April, March, May
- peak months
Verified species, source iNaturalist
11 types of hawks recorded in Minnesota
11 hawk species have a verified observation record in Minnesota across the hawk family (Accipitridae), which also includes eagles, kites and harriers, each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
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Plus 2 more recorded only rarely (fewer than 10 verified sightings). Counts from verified iNaturalist observations. Photos by iNaturalist observers, reused under the licence each observer chose.
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
14,208 verified observations on iNaturalist of hawk have been recorded in Minnesota, most often in April, March, May.
When hawk are recorded in Minnesota
Yes, hawks are a prominent and powerful part of Minnesota's birdlife, found across the state's forests, prairies, and cities. These expert hunters are a common sight year-round, with many species also passing through during migration. This guide covers the common kinds of hawks you will encounter in the North Star State.
What are the most common hawk species in Minnesota?
The red-tailed hawk is the most widespread and frequently seen species, often perched on utility poles along highways. The Cooper's hawk is also common, especially in wooded suburban areas. Broad-winged hawks are numerous in the northern forests during the summer and are famous for their massive migration groups in the fall.
Where are the best places for hawk watching in Minnesota?
Hawk Ridge in Duluth is one of the premier hawk-watching spots in the country, especially during the fall migration. State parks like Whitewater and Frontenac offer excellent viewing opportunities along the Mississippi River flyway. Even urban areas like Minneapolis and St. Paul host resident hawks. Check ourMinnesota wildlife guidefor more locations.
How can you identify different hawk types in Minnesota?
Look for the broad wings and signature reddish-brown tail of the red-tailed hawk. Cooper's hawks have shorter, more rounded wings and a long, banded tail. Northern harriers are identifiable by their white rump patch and their habit of flying low over marshes and prairies. For more identification tips, see ourhawk identification guide.
What is the role of hawks in Minnesota's ecosystem?
Hawks are vital apex predators that help maintain the balance of prey populations, particularly rodents and small birds. Their presence is a sign of a healthy and diverse environment. They occupy a wide range of habitats, showing their importance in both the forested north and the prairie regions of the south and west.
Hawk-themed gifts for birders
If you admire the power and grace of the hawk, you might enjoy these themed items for your home or as a gift.
Red-Tailed Hawk Enamel Coffee Mug []() A durable and stylish mug that is perfect for your next camping trip or morning birding session. Features a beautiful illustration of Minnesota's most common hawk. Check Price and Availability
When is the best time for hawk watching in Minnesota?
The fall migration from September through October is the peak time to see thousands of hawks moving south. However, many species like the red-tailed hawk are permanent residents and can be seen year-round. Winter is also a great time to see northern species like the rough-legged hawk, which moves into Minnesota from the arctic.
Are there rare hawk species in Minnesota?
Yes, Minnesota occasionally hosts rarer species like the Swainson's hawk in the western prairies or the red-shouldered hawk in the southeastern forests. The rough-legged hawk is a regular but exciting winter visitor from the far north. Birders often flock to see these less common species during their seasonal movements through the state.
How can I help protect Minnesota's hawks?
Protecting habitat and avoiding the use of rodenticides are the most important ways to help hawks. Rodenticides can poison hawks when they eat rodents that have ingested the chemicals. Supporting organizations like the Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory helps fund research and conservation efforts for these vital birds of prey.
What do hawks eat in Minnesota?
Hawks in Minnesota have a varied diet depending on the species. Larger hawks like the red-tailed primarily eat small mammals like mice, squirrels, and rabbits. Smaller hawks like the sharp-shinned and Cooper's hawks specialize in hunting other birds. Northern harriers hunt for frogs, snakes, and large insects in open fields and wetlands.
Gear and field guides
Frequently asked questions
What types of hawks live in Minnesota?+
The red-tailed hawk is the most widespread and frequently seen species, often perched on utility poles along highways. The Cooper's hawk is also common, especially in wooded suburban areas. Broad-winged hawks are numerous in the northern forests during the summer and are famous for their massive migration groups in the fall.
How do you tell hawks apart in Minnesota?+
The red-tailed hawk is the most widespread and frequently seen species, often perched on utility poles along highways. The Cooper's hawk is also common, especially in wooded suburban areas. Broad-winged hawks are numerous in the northern forests during the summer and are famous for their massive migration groups in the fall.
Which hawk is most common in Minnesota?+
The red-tailed hawk is the most widespread and frequently seen species, often perched on utility poles along highways. The Cooper's hawk is also common, especially in wooded suburban areas. Broad-winged hawks are numerous in the northern forests during the summer and are famous for their massive migration groups in the fall.
Keep exploring
More places to see hawk
More wildlife in Minnesota