Montana, a state known for its vast landscapes, remarkable biodiversity, and rich ecological tapestry, is a true haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. Among its diverse birdlife, a unique category that never fails to fascinate is the Birds of Prey. These predatory avian species, encompassing hawks, eagles, falcons, owls, and vultures, are remarkable for their exceptional hunting skills, keen eyesight, and impressive wingspans.
Types of Birds of Prey in Montana
| Bird's Name | Size | Frequency in Montana | Best Place to Spot in Montana | Best Viewing Season | Conservation Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sharp-shinned Hawk | Small | Common | Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge | Spring - Fall | Least Concern |
| Western Screech-Owl | Small | Common | Glacier National Park | All year | Least Concern |
| Eastern Screech-Owl | Small | Rare | Bitterroot Valley | Spring - Fall | Least Concern |
| Northern Saw-whet Owl | Small | Very Common | West of Missoula | All year | Least Concern |
| Burrowing Owl | Small | Common | Northeast Montana | Spring - Fall | Least Concern |
| American Kestrel | Small | Very Common | Throughout Montana | Spring - Fall | Least Concern |
| Cooper's Hawk | Medium | Very Common | Bitterroot Valley | Spring - Fall | Least Concern |
| American Barn Owl | Medium | Very Rare | Bitterroot Valley | Spring - Fall | Least Concern |
| Short-eared Owl | Medium | Common | Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge | Spring - Fall | Least Concern |
| Peregrine Falcon | Medium | Very Rare | Bighorn Canyon | Spring - Fall | Least Concern |
| Prairie Falcon | Medium | Rare | Makoshika State Park | Spring - Fall | Least Concern |
| Red-tailed Hawk | Large | Very Common | Flathead Indian Reservation | Spring - Fall | Least Concern |
| Ferruginous Hawk | Large | Common | Charles M. Russell NWR | Spring - Fall | Least Concern |
| Swainson's Hawk | Large | Common | Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge | Spring - Fall | Least Concern |
| Rough-legged Hawk | Large | Common | Bear Paw Mountains | Winter | Least Concern |
| Osprey | Large | Rare | Glacier National Park | Spring - Summer | Least Concern |
| Great Horned Owl | Large | Very Common | Charles M. Russell NWR | All year | Least Concern |
| Snowy Owl | Large | Very Rare | Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge | Winter | Vulnerable |
| Great Gray Owl | Large | Rare | Seeley Lake Area | All year | Least Concern |
| Bald Eagle | Large | Very Common | Missouri River Corridor | All year | Least Concern |
| Golden Eagle | Large | Very Common | Northern Rocky Mountains | All year | Least Concern |
| Turkey Vulture | Large | Common | Throughout Montana | Spring - Fall | Least Concern |
Other North American hawks such as broad winged hawks (the broad winged hawk is known by its long broad wings), the northern harrier and northern goshawks are very rarely seen in central and eastern Montana. If you want to find out more about hawks in Montana, check out our Montana hawks guide.
Montana's Birds of Prey Photo Guide
Where to Spot Montana’s Birds of Prey
National Bison Range, Moiese: Located in western Montana, this protected range is a great place to see a variety of birds of prey, including eagles, hawks, and ospreys. Golden Eagles and Red-tailed Hawks are among the most commonly sighted raptors here.
Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge, Stevensville: The riparian and wetland habitats of this refuge make it a prime location for spotting different species of raptors. Notable residents include Bald Eagles, Northern Harriers, and American Kestrels.
Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge, Charlo: This refuge, known for its pristine wetlands and surrounding grasslands, is an excellent location for bird watchers. Here you can find Bald Eagles, Ospreys, and various species of hawks, especially during the migration season.
Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge, Lewistown: Covering more than a million acres of prairies, forests, and rivers, this refuge is home to a variety of birds of prey, including Golden Eagles, various hawk species, and Great Horned Owls.
Yellowstone National Park: While not solely in Montana, the portion of the park that falls within the state’s boundaries is renowned for its variety of raptors. Visitors can spot Bald Eagles, Peregrine Falcons, and even the occasional Northern Goshawk.
The big sky of Montana is a paradise for various birds of prey. Explore the wilderness mirrored by Idaho’s Sky Predators. Journey to the plains of North Dakota, where the Winged Hunters echo the state’s untamed beauty. To the south, Wyoming’s Birds of Prey are a testament to the Cowboy State’s rugged landscapes. Discover more about these captivating birds with our extensive US Birds of Prey Resource.