Hawks in Vermont: identification guide and where to start looking
Vermont hosts several hawk species year-round, with the Red-tailed Hawk being the most common. Spring and fall migrations bring the best variety. Start your search along open fields and forest edges, especially in the Champlain Valley. This guide will help you identify the hawks you're most likely to see.
Vermont hosts several hawk species year-round, with the Red-tailed Hawk being the most common. Spring and fall migrations bring the best variety. Start your search along open fields and forest edges, especially in the Champlain Valley. This guide will help you identify the hawks you're most likely to see.
What types of hawks are most common in Vermont?
The Red-tailed Hawk is the most widespread. You'll also regularly see Red-shouldered Hawks in wet forests, Broad-winged Hawks during migration, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks around bird feeders, and Northern Harriers over marshes. The Red-tailed has a brown back and a pale belly with a dark belly band. Its tail is mostly reddish above. For more details on each species, check ourhawk identification hub.
Where in Vermont should you start looking for hawks?
Start with open fields and forest edges in the Champlain Valley, where Red-tails perch on fence posts. In the southern Green Mountains, look for Broad-winged Hawks during migration. Forested wetlands in the Northeast Kingdom are good for Red-shouldered Hawks. Coastal marshes along Lake Champlain hold Northern Harriers. Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area is a reliable spot. For more Vermont birding locations, visit ourVermont wildlife page.
What is the best season for hawk watching in Vermont?
Spring migration from mid-March to May brings Broad-winged and Red-shouldered Hawks moving north. Fall migration from September to November is excellent, especially at mountain ridgetop hawk watches like Mount Philo or the Green Mountains. Red-tailed Hawks are present year-round, but numbers increase in winter as northern birds move in. For comparison with other raptors, see ourowls of Vermont guide.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
How can I tell apart similar looking hawks?
Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks are the toughest pair. Cooper's is larger, with a rounded tail tip and a more prominent dark cap. Sharp-shinned is smaller with a square tail. Look for the head projection: Cooper's sticks out farther. Red-shouldered vs Red-tailed: Red-shouldered has a banded black-and-white tail and a red shoulder patch, while Red-tailed has a solid reddish tail and a dark belly band. For more ID tips, ourhawk identification guidecovers field marks in detail.
What are the best times of day for hawk sightings?
Hawks are most active in the first few hours after sunrise when thermals begin to form. Late afternoon, just before sunset, also sees increased activity as birds hunt before dusk. Midday is slower, especially in summer heat. Overcast days can extend activity periods. During migration, mornings are best for watching large kettles. For more tips, check out ourbald eagle spotting guidefor similar timing.
Are there any rare hawk species that pass through Vermont?
The Northern Goshawk is a rare year-round resident, mostly in deep conifer forests. Swainson's Hawk and Ferruginous Hawk are very rare migrants, usually seen during fall at ridgetop watches. Rough-legged Hawks visit in winter from the Arctic, often seen hovering over open fields. These casual visitors keep hawk watchers on their toes. For a full list, browse ourVermont hawk profiles.
How can you bring your hawk sightings home?
Once you've identified a hawk in the field, you might want to keep a reminder on your wall or your gear. We've picked a few hawk-themed items that fit the bird fan's style.
### Peregrine Falcon Retro Graphic Tee
A bold retro design featuring the fastest bird in the world. This soft cotton tee is perfect for wearing on a hawk watch.Check Price and Availability
### 5X Hawk Sticker Set (5 pieces): Bird of Prey Car Stickers, Forest, Nature, Falconer, Bird
A set of five high-quality vinyl stickers showing different raptors. Great for decorating water bottles, laptops, or field notebooks.Check Price and Availability
### Hawk Tarot Card T-Shirt
A mystical design that blends tarot imagery with a soaring hawk. Comfortable and conversation-starting.Check Price and Availability
For more hawk-inspired wall art, explore ourbird art prints collection.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vermont Hawks
**What is the largest hawk in Vermont?** The Red-tailed Hawk is the largest breeding hawk, with a wingspan up to 52 inches. The occasional Rough-legged Hawk in winter is similar in size.
**Are hawks protected in Vermont?** Yes, all hawks are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Do not disturb nests or attempt to capture them.
**How do I tell a hawk from a falcon in Vermont?** Falcons have slender, pointed wings and a fast, direct flight. Hawks have broader, rounded wings and often soar. Peregrine Falcons and American Kestrels are the most likely falcons.
**What should I do if I find an injured hawk?** Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department. Do not attempt to handle it yourself.
**Can I attract hawks to my backyard?** Hawks are attracted to areas with abundant prey like rodents and songbirds. Installing a bird feeder will attract smaller birds, which may attract Cooper's or Sharp-shinned Hawks. But keep in mind that hawks are predators and may scare off other birds.
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