Hawks in Washington: Summer Sighting Guide
Summer in Washington is when the local hawk population settles into the hard work of raising the next generation. While the massive migration clouds of April have passed, the long July days offer the best light for studying the behavior of our resident Red-tails and Cooper's Hawks in the deep green forests.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated July 1, 2026.
- April, January, March
- peak months
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
29,545 verified observations on iNaturalist of hawk have been recorded in Washington, most often in April, January, March.
Summer in Washington is when the local hawk population settles into the hard work of raising the next generation. While the massive migration clouds of April have passed, the long July days offer the best light for studying the behavior of our resident Red-tails and Cooper's Hawks in the deep green forests.
Where do hawks nest in Washington during summer?
Most Red-tailed Hawks prefer high perches in old-growth Douglas firs or on sturdy power line towers near open fields. Cooper's Hawks are more secretive, often choosing dense woodlots where they can hide their nests from larger predators. Watching a nest site from a safe distance is a great summer activity in the Cascades.
What do Washington hawks eat in the warmer months?
The abundance of small mammals and songbirds in June and July keeps the hawks busy. You might see a Cooper's Hawk patrolling suburban backyards for a quick meal. Bald Eagles stay close to the water, where the summer salmon runs provide a steady source of food for their growing chicks.
Are there specific summer spotting tips?
Start your day early before the heat creates too much shimmer in the air. Hawks are often most active in the mid-morning when the first thermals begin to rise off the coast. Look for them soaring over agricultural fields in the Yakima Valley or along the edges of the Olympic Peninsula forests.
How to tell adults from fledglings in July?
By late summer, you will start seeing young hawks testing their wings near the nest sites. They often lack the crisp markings of the adults and may seem more clumsy in their flight patterns. A young Red-tailed Hawk will not have its namesake red tail yet, showing a brown, banded tail instead as it learns the ropes.
Gear and field guides
Frequently asked questions
Where do hawks nest in Washington during summer?+
Most Red-tailed Hawks prefer high perches in old-growth Douglas firs or on sturdy power line towers near open fields. Cooper's Hawks are more secretive, often choosing dense woodlots where they can hide their nests from larger predators. Watching a nest site from a safe distance is a great summer activity in the Cascades.
What do Washington hawks eat in the warmer months?+
The abundance of small mammals and songbirds in June and July keeps the hawks busy. You might see a Cooper's Hawk patrolling suburban backyards for a quick meal. Bald Eagles stay close to the water, where the summer salmon runs provide a steady source of food for their growing chicks.
Are there specific summer spotting tips?+
Start your day early before the heat creates too much shimmer in the air. Hawks are often most active in the mid-morning when the first thermals begin to rise off the coast. Look for them soaring over agricultural fields in the Yakima Valley or along the edges of the Olympic Peninsula forests.
How to tell adults from fledglings in July?+
By late summer, you will start seeing young hawks testing their wings near the nest sites. They often lack the crisp markings of the adults and may seem more clumsy in their flight patterns. A young Red-tailed Hawk will not have its namesake red tail yet, showing a brown, banded tail instead as it learns the ropes.
Keep exploring
More places to see hawk
More wildlife in Washington