Welcome to the captivating world of Birds of Prey in Alabama. The state of Alabama is a haven for these magnificent creatures, boasting a rich diversity of avian predators that command the skies. From the soaring presence of eagles to the stealthy prowess of hawks and the haunting calls of owls, Alabama’s birds of prey contribute to the state’s vibrant ecosystem and offer a remarkable spectacle for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike.
There are actually 33 birds of prey in Alabama but we are just focusing on the most common 19!
Here is a list of 19 of the most common birds of prey found in Alabama:
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Turkey Vulture: Abundant throughout Alabama, often seen soaring in open areas, playing a vital role in the ecosystem by consuming carrion.
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Red-tailed Hawk: These hawks are idespread in diverse habitats across Alabama, frequently observed soaring above open fields and forests.
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Red-shouldered Hawk: Common resident found in swampy and wooded areas near water sources throughout the state, recognized by its reddish shoulders.
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Cooper’s Hawk: Found in wooded areas, including suburban and urban environments, where they prey on smaller birds. They can be observed in parks and neighborhoods.
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Bald Eagle: Healthy population in Alabama, particularly near water bodies such as rivers and lakes. Sightings of their impressive nests and soaring flights can be enjoyed in various national parks and wildlife refuges.
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Great Horned Owl: Nocturnal predator, widespread in forests and urban areas across the state. Their haunting hoots can be heard in parks, nature reserves, and even suburban neighborhoods.
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Osprey: Seen near waterways, including coastal regions and lakes. Look for their nests on platforms erected specifically for their use or perched on snags near bodies of water.
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American Kestrel: Found in open habitats like farmlands, grasslands, and coastal areas. They hover in mid-air while hunting insects and small vertebrates.
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Mississippi Kite: Summer resident in Alabama, favoring open woodlands and areas near rivers. They can be observed in locations such as the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge.
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Broad-winged Hawk: Migratory species that pass through Alabama in large numbers during migration, particularly over forests and woodlands.
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Northern Harrier: Found in wetland areas, marshes, and open fields across Alabama. They are known for their low, gliding flights and hunting small mammals and birds.
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Swallow-tailed Kite: Summer species found over wetlands and forests, catching prey in flight. They can be spotted in areas like the Mobile-Tensaw Delta.
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Barred Owl: Resident species in forests and swamps, recognized by their distinctive “Who cooks for you?” call. Look for them in locations such as Bankhead National Forest.
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Peregrine Falcon: Occasionally observed during migration along coastal areas or perched near tall structures such as bridges and cliffs, known for their high-speed dives.
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Northern Saw-whet Owl: Elusive species found in dense forests across Alabama. They are predominantly nocturnal and recognized by their hooting call.
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Sharp-shinned Hawk: Year-round resident in woodlands, skilled at hunting songbirds. They are known to visit bird feeders and can be observed in various locations.
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Merlin: Seen in Alabama, particularly during migration. Look for them in suitable habitats such as open areas and coastal regions.
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Northern Goshawk: Present in Alabama, but sightings may be less frequent. These large hawks are typically found in forested areas.
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Eastern Screech Owl: Eastern screech owls are found in wooded areas across the state, these small owls are masters of camouflage and known for their haunting trills and whinnies.
/Swallow-tailed Kite
Top Places to Spot Preying Birds in Alabama
Alabama offers several fantastic locations to spot a diverse array of birds of prey. Here are the top locations known for their abundance and diversity of Birds of Prey in the state:
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Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge: Located along the Tennessee River near Decatur, Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge provides a prime habitat for birds of prey. The refuge’s wetlands, forests, and open fields attract a variety of raptors, including Bald Eagles, Ospreys, Red-tailed Hawks, and Mississippi Kites. Visitors can explore the refuge’s trails, observation decks, and drive the scenic Wildlife Drive to observe these magnificent birds in their natural habitats.
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Bankhead National Forest: Situated in northwest Alabama, Bankhead National Forest offers a mix of upland forests, hardwood bottoms, and scenic rivers. This diverse landscape attracts a range of birds of prey, such as Barred Owls, Red-shouldered Hawks, Cooper’s Hawks, and Broad-winged Hawks. Exploring the forest’s trails and listening for the hoots of owls or the piercing calls of hawks can provide exciting encounters with these majestic birds.
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Gulf State Park: Located on the coast of Alabama, Gulf State Park is not only a popular destination for beachgoers but also an excellent spot for birdwatching. The park’s diverse habitats, including coastal dunes, marshes, and woodlands, attract a variety of raptors. Visitors may spot American Kestrels perched on utility lines, Swallow-tailed Kites gracefully soaring overhead, and Ospreys hunting along the shoreline.
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Wheeler Dam: Situated on the Tennessee River in northern Alabama, Wheeler Dam provides prime opportunities for observing birds of prey. The area near the dam attracts an abundance of fish, which, in turn, attracts birds such as Bald Eagles and Ospreys. Visitors can watch these majestic birds fishing or soaring in the vicinity of the dam, offering thrilling birdwatching experiences.
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Little River Canyon National Preserve: Located in northeastern Alabama, Little River Canyon National Preserve is a stunning landscape of deep gorges, waterfalls, and dense forests. This preserved wilderness serves as a haven for a variety of birds of prey, including Red-tailed Hawks, Sharp-shinned Hawks, and Great Horned Owls. Exploring the park’s scenic overlooks and hiking trails provides opportunities to observe these birds in their natural habitats.
Continue your journey eastward to the birds of prey in Georgia. Venturing north, the rolling hills and sprawling forests of Tennessee become a living tableau of hawk-watching opportunities, see preying birds in Tennessee . Then, let the mighty Mississippi River show you the Mississippi raptors. Finally, journey into the bayous of Louisiana, to capture birds of prey in Louisiana.
Are Birds of Prey in Alabama protected by law?
Yes, birds of prey in Alabama are protected by both state and federal laws. It is illegal to harm, disturb, or possess these birds without the necessary permits. Report any violations to the appropriate wildlife authorities.
What should I do if I find an injured or orphaned bird of prey in Alabama?
If you encounter an injured or orphaned bird of prey, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator in Alabama. Do not attempt to handle or care for the bird yourself, as they require specialized care and expertise.
How can I attract birds of prey to my backyard in Alabama?
To attract birds of prey to your backyard, provide suitable habitat elements like perches, nesting platforms, and food sources such as bird feeders or open areas for hunting. Consult local birding resources for specific tips and recommendations.
Can I own a bird of prey as a pet in Alabama?
No, it is illegal to possess or keep birds of prey as pets in Alabama without the required permits and licenses. Birds of prey are wild animals and require specialized care and environments.