12 Types of Hawks in Pennsylvania

1. What types of hawks are found in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania has eight breeding hawk species plus a few migrants. The year-round residents include Red-tailed Hawk, Red-shouldered Hawk, and Cooper's Hawk. Sharp-shinned Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, Northern Harrier, American Kestrel, and Rough-legged Hawk (winter visitor) round out the list. Each species has unique hunting styles and habitat preferences. Check ourhawk facts pagefor quick ID sheets on each species.

2. How can I tell a Cooper's Hawk from a Sharp-shinned Hawk?

Size is the first clue. Cooper's Hawks are crow-sized (15-20 inches) while Sharp-shinned Hawks are jay-sized (10-14 inches). In flight, Cooper's tail is rounded; Sharp-shinned tail is square or slightly notched. Cooper's head projects farther past the wing leading edge. Juveniles are harder, so also look at the tarsus (leg) width: Cooper's legs are thicker. For more detail, visit ourPennsylvania wildlife hub.

3. Where are the best places in Pennsylvania to see hawks?

Hawk Mountain Sanctuary (Kempton) is the premier fall watch site, counting thousands of migrants. Other reliable spots include Allegheny Front Hawk Watch (central PA), Tuscarora Summit (south-central), and Waggoner's Gap (Cumberland County). For resident hawks, try State Game Lands near open fields and mixed woodlands. Spring counts are lower but possible at these same ridges. Best odds are mid-September through October. See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.

4. When is the best time of year to see hawks in Pennsylvania?

Fall migration peaks from September through October along the Appalachian ridges. Spring migration is less pronounced but runs March-April. Year-round residents are seen any season. Rough-legged Hawks arrive from the Arctic only in winter (November-February). For the highest diversity, plan a trip to a hawk watch in early October. The peak of the broad-winged hawk migration in mid-September is also a highlight for many birders.

5. What field marks separate Red-tailed Hawks from Red-shouldered Hawks?

Red-tails have a distinct dark belly band on a pale chest and a rusty-red tail in adults. Red-shouldered Hawks have a barred reddish chest and bold black-and-white wing checkering. In flight, Red-tails soar with wings slightly raised; Red-shouldered have a more rounded wing profile. Note also the call: Red-shouldered is a loud 'kee-ah' whereas Red-tail screams are lower and more rasping. Check ourhawk facts pagefor illustrations of these differences.

6. Are there any rare or unusual hawks I might see in Pennsylvania?

Swainson's Hawks pass through very rarely. Ferruginous Hawks are accidental. More likely are Rough-legged Hawks in winter and Northern Goshawks in deep northern forests. Goshawks are hard to find; try the Poconos or northern tier counties. Broad-winged Hawks are common in migration but nest in heavily wooded areas across the state. Mississippi Kites are also occasionally reported in the southern counties during the summer.

7. What gear helps me identify hawks in the field?

A good pair of binoculars (8x42 or 10x42) is essential. A field guide with range maps and flight silhouettes helps. Many hawk watchers use a notebook or app for notes. For clothing, neutral colors and quiet fabrics reduce spooking. Easy Street Markets offers bird-themed apparel and stickers that make good conversation starters at the hawk watch. Below are a few items regulars appreciate.

8. Products to celebrate your hawk sightings

Vintage Hawk Retro Hawk Bird T-Shirt

A classic design that shows off your appreciation for these raptors. Wear it on your next ridge walk.Check Price and Availability

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

Perfect for decorating a water bottle or field notebook. Each set includes five different hawk silhouettes.Check Price and Availability

Peregrine Falcon Bird of Prey T-Shirt

While not a hawk, the peregrine shares many of the same habitats. This shirt is a subtle nod to all raptors.Check Price and Availability

For more art and decor, browse ourbird wall art collection.

Peregrine Falcon Retro Graphic Tee

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

9. Frequently Asked Questions about Pennsylvania hawks

**Q: Are there any hawks that look like eagles in PA?** A: The Red-tailed Hawk can appear eagle-like from a distance, but eagles are much larger and have a soaring profile with flat wings. **Q: Can I see hawks in winter?** A: Yes, Red-tailed, Cooper's, and Rough-legged hawks are winter-active. **Q: What's the smallest hawk in Pennsylvania?** A: The American Kestrel (9-12 inches), often seen perching on wires. **Q: Do hawks hunt backyard birds?** A: Cooper's and Sharp-shinned hawks do visit feeders for prey. To identify them, watch for quick, agile flight through trees. See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.

10. Are hawks protected in Pennsylvania?

Yes, all hawks and other birds of prey are protected under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. It is illegal to hunt, capture, or harm them, or to disturb their nests and eggs. Pennsylvania also has its own state wildlife laws that provide additional layers of protection. These regulations have been instrumental in the recovery of species like the peregrine falcon and the bald eagle. If you find an injured hawk, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or the Pennsylvania Game Commission for assistance.

11. What kind of habitat do Pennsylvania hawks prefer?

The habitat needs of Pennsylvania hawks vary by species. Red-tailed Hawks thrive in open areas with scattered trees for perching, such as farmland and highway corridors. Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks prefer wooded areas, including suburban woodlots where they hunt smaller birds. Broad-winged Hawks require more extensive forest cover for nesting. Maintaining a diverse landscape of forests, fields, and wetlands is crucial for supporting the full range of hawk species across the state. For more on their environment, visit thePennsylvania wildlife hub.