Amid the diverse landscapes of Massachusetts, from the Atlantic coastline to the forested Berkshires, a cadre of Birds of Prey thrives, enhancing the state’s natural vitality. Eagles, hawks, falcons, and owls - these raptors, known for their keen senses, sharp talons, and predatory instincts, serve as integral parts of the state’s ecological fabric.
Witnessing these birds in their natural Massachusetts habitats, whether riding coastal thermals or hunting in verdant woodlands, is to be privy to a magnificent testament of the state’s wild beauty and biodiversity.
List of Birds of Prey in Massachusetts
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Sharp-shinned Hawk: Primarily seen during migration season, these hawks are often spotted around Cape Cod.
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Cooper’s Hawk: Found throughout the state, they’re common in suburban areas and parks like Boston Common.
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Northern Goshawk: Scarce but present in larger forested areas such as the Mohawk Trail State Forest.
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Red-shouldered Hawk: Regularly seen in forested habitats, such as Harold Parker State Forest.
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Broad-winged Hawk: Common in forested areas, especially during migration seasons at Mount Tom State Reservation.
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Red-tailed Hawk: Widespread across Massachusetts, they can often be seen along highways and in open fields.
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Rough-legged Hawk: Winter visitors to Massachusetts, primarily seen in the coastal areas around Cape Cod.
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Barn Owl: Known to inhabit coastal regions, they’ve been spotted in areas like Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.
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Eastern Screech Owl: Common throughout the state, they are often found in suburban areas and forests.
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Great Horned Owl: Can be found across Massachusetts, from forests to city parks, including Boston’s Arnold Arboretum.
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Snowy Owl: Winter visitors often seen on the coastline, especially around Plum Island.
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Barred Owl: Regularly seen in forested areas like the Myles Standish State Forest.
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Long-eared Owl: Rare winter visitors, found in dense thickets and forests.
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Short-eared Owl: Prefers open grasslands, and are occasionally seen on Nantucket.
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Northern Saw-whet Owl: Most common in western Massachusetts, particularly in forests such as Savoy Mountain State Forest.
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American Kestrel: Common across Massachusetts, they are often seen in open fields and farmlands.
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Merlin: Often seen during migration, especially around the coastal areas of Cape Cod.
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Peregrine Falcon: Known to inhabit urban areas, they’ve nested on buildings in cities like Boston.
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Golden Eagle: Rare but can be seen during migration in western Massachusetts.
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Bald Eagle: Reestablished across Massachusetts, particularly near large bodies of water like Quabbin Reservoir.
Where to Spot Massachusetts’s Birds of Prey
Quabbin Reservoir, Belchertown: Known for its Bald Eagle population, this vast reservoir also hosts a variety of other raptors including Red-tailed Hawks, Cooper’s Hawks, and various owl species.
Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, Newburyport: This coastal refuge provides a diverse range of habitats, attracting several bird species including Northern Harriers, Ospreys, and Peregrine Falcons.
Blue Hills Reservation, Milton: Covering more than 7,000 acres, this area provides an excellent opportunity to spot raptors. Watch for Red-tailed Hawks, Broad-winged Hawks, and Great Horned Owls.
Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge, Chatham: This coastal refuge provides unique habitats for birds of prey, including Ospreys and Northern Harriers. During winter, Snowy Owls have been spotted here.
Wachusett Mountain State Reservation, Princeton: Located on a mountain range, this area is a fantastic spot for hawk watching, especially during migration seasons. You can also spot Peregrine Falcons and several owl species.
Massachusetts’ diverse habitats are home to a range of birds of prey. Experience the quintessential New England charm embodied by Connecticut’s Raptors. Meanwhile, New York’s Feathered Predators showcase the Empire State’s vibrant and contrasting natural world. Deepen your knowledge about these avian marvels with our Birds of Prey Guide.