Missouri, a state rich in diverse habitats and ecological diversity, serves as a thriving refuge for a fascinating array of birds of prey. Characterized by their predatory nature, sharp vision, and powerful talons, Missouri’s birds of prey are majestic, fierce, and endlessly intriguing.
Types of Birds of Prey in Missouri
Red-tailed Hawk: Known for its characteristic russet-red tail, the Red-tailed Hawk is a common sight in Missouri’s open fields and highway byways, particularly in rural areas such as the Osage Plains.
Sharp-shinned Hawk: With its quick flight and preference for dense forests, the Sharp-shinned Hawk thrives in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, chasing after small birds in thick canopies.
Cooper’s Hawk: Similar to its cousin the Sharp-shinned Hawk, Cooper’s Hawk favors woodlands and can often be spotted in parks like Mark Twain National Forest, hunting in rapid, nimble flights.
Red-shouldered Hawk: Known for their distinctive, loud calls, Red-shouldered Hawks are frequently sighted in Missouri’s wet woodlands and riverine forests, especially in areas like Big Oak Tree State Park.
Broad-winged Hawk: The Broad-winged Hawk, recognized for its broad wings and short tail, is a summer resident in Missouri, often seen soaring over regions such as the Ozarks during migration.
Swainson’s Hawk: Swainson’s Hawk is a long-distance migrant, often seen in Missouri’s prairies and agricultural fields during migration. They tend to visit the state in spring and fall, as they travel to and from their breeding grounds.
Rough-legged Hawk: Visiting Missouri during the winter months, the Rough-legged Hawk is a distinctive sight in the state’s open country, particularly around areas like Prairie State Park.
Osprey: Renowned for its spectacular dives to catch fish, the Osprey is a frequent visitor near the state’s large lakes and rivers, including the Lake of the Ozarks and the Mississippi River.
Great Horned Owl: The Great Horned Owl, a year-round resident in Missouri, makes its home in a variety of habitats, from dense forests to city parks.
Barred Owl: Known for their distinctive “Who cooks for you?” call, Barred Owls inhabit the older deciduous forests and swamplands of areas like Mingo National Wildlife Refuge.
Eastern Screech-Owl: Small but fierce, the Eastern Screech-Owl thrives in Missouri’s wooded suburbs and parks, offering an enchanting serenade after sunset.
Snowy Owl: The Snowy Owl is an infrequent winter visitor to Missouri, typically sighted in the state’s open fields and marshes, such as those around Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge.
American Barn Owl: With its hauntingly beautiful face, the American Barn Owl prefers open countryside and is often seen near farm buildings across Missouri’s rural areas.
Northern Saw-whet Owl: Elusive and tiny, the Northern Saw-whet Owl is occasionally spotted in Missouri’s coniferous forests, particularly during migration.
Short-eared Owl: Preferring open fields and marshes, the Short-eared Owl can be found in regions like Grand Pass Conservation Area, often seen hunting at dusk and dawn.
Peregrine Falcon: Speedy and agile, the Peregrine Falcon can be spotted nesting on tall structures in urban areas such as Kansas City and St. Louis, as well as along the bluffs of the Mississippi River.
American Kestrel: The smallest falcon in North America, the American Kestrel, thrives in Missouri’s open habitats and can often be seen perched on telephone wires along the roads.
Prairie Falcon: A rare visitor to Missouri, the Prairie Falcon is occasionally spotted in the open country during migration, adding to the state’s diverse avian tapestry.
Bald Eagle: The Bald Eagle is commonly sighted along Missouri’s large bodies of water, especially during winter at the famous Eagle Days events held at various locations including Clarksville and Chain of Rocks Bridge in St. Louis. Golden eagles and turkey vultures are rare visitors to the state.
Where to Spot Missouri’s Birds of Prey
Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary, West Alton: This sanctuary is located near the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. It’s an excellent spot for viewing a variety of birds of prey, including the Bald Eagle, which are especially prevalent in the winter months. Year-round residents include Red-tailed Hawks and Barred Owls.
Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge, Mound City: This refuge is located in northwestern Missouri and is a major stopover for migratory birds. Here, you can spot hawks, eagles, and osprey, especially during the fall migration. Additionally, the refuge is home to a large population of American Kestrels, Missouri’s smallest bird of prey.
Mark Twain National Forest, Rolla: Covering more than 1.5 million acres, this expansive forest is home to a wide variety of raptors. Notable species include Red-shouldered Hawks, Northern Goshawks, and Great Horned Owls. Furthermore, the forest’s diverse habitats, from swamps to woodlands, increase the likelihood of sighting these magnificent birds.
Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area, Columbia: This conservation area in central Missouri is best known for winter eagle viewing, as Bald Eagles congregate here due to the unfrozen waters of the Missouri River. It is also an excellent location to spot Red-tailed Hawks and Northern Harriers throughout the year.
Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge, Forest City: This refuge is renowned for the large number of Bald Eagles that roost here in winter. In addition, it’s an excellent location to view Peregrine Falcons, Ospreys, and various hawk species throughout the year.
Missouri’s heartland is a stage for the spectacle of swooping raptors. Venture to Kansas, where the Skyborne Predators reflect the state’s prairie spirit. To the east, Illinois’ Birds of Prey showcase the diversity of the Land of Lincoln. Or, experience the charm of Arkansas’s Feathered Hunters. Uncover more about these creatures with our in-depth Guide to Raptors.