Birds of prey in New Jersey include a diverse range of species, these majestic birds play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems by preying on smaller animals. They exhibit remarkable hunting skills and are known for their keen eyesight, powerful talons, and sharp beaks. New Jersey provides a habitat for various birds of prey, contributing to the region’s rich avian biodiversity.
Types of Birds of Prey in New Jersey
| Bird's Name | Size | Frequency in New Hampshire | Best Place to Spot in New Hampshire | Best Viewing Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sharp-shinned Hawk | Small | Common | White Mountain National Forest | Spring - Fall |
| Eastern Screech-Owl | Small | Common | Throughout New Hampshire | All year |
| Northern Saw-whet Owl | Small | Very Common | White Mountain National Forest | All year |
| American Kestrel | Small | Very Common | Agricultural areas | Spring - Fall |
| Merlin | Small | Common | Forested areas | Spring - Fall |
| Cooper's Hawk | Medium | Very Common | Urban and suburban areas | Spring - Fall |
| Peregrine Falcon | Medium | Very Rare | Franconia Notch State Park | Spring - Fall |
| Red-shouldered Hawk | Medium | Common | Southern New Hampshire | Spring - Fall |
| Broad-winged Hawk | Medium | Common | Forested areas | Spring - Fall |
| Short-eared Owl | Medium | Rare | Coastal areas | Winter |
| Barn Owl | Medium | Rare | Farmland and open country | Spring - Fall |
| Red-tailed Hawk | Large | Very Common | Throughout New Hampshire | Spring - Fall |
| Rough-legged Hawk | Large | Rare | Northern New Hampshire | Winter |
| Osprey | Large | Rare | Large lakes and rivers | Spring - Summer |
| Great Horned Owl | Large | Very Common | Throughout New Hampshire | All year |
| Bald Eagle | Large | Common | Large lakes and rivers | All year |
| Turkey Vulture | Large | Common | Throughout New Hampshire | Spring - Fall |
| Black Vulture | Large | Rare | Southern New Hampshire | Spring - Fall |
| Golden Eagle | Large | Rare | Northern New Hampshire | All year |
Hawks in New jersey can sometimes include the northern harrier and the northern goshawk but these are very rare visitors. Northern goshawks are very illusive birds and very hard to spot, here is a complete guide to New Jersey hawks.
Birds of Prey in New Jersey Photo Guide
Where to Spot New Jersey’s Birds of Prey
Cape May Point State Park: Renowned as one of the best birding sites in North America, especially during migration seasons. You can spot a variety of hawks, eagles, and falcons, including the Cooper’s Hawk, Peregrine Falcon, and even the Bald Eagle during fall migration.
Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge: Located near Atlantic City, this refuge is an excellent location to see Ospreys, Bald Eagles, and various species of hawks. Its marshes and water bodies create an attractive environment for these birds of prey.
High Point State Park: As the name suggests, this park provides high vantage points that make it an excellent location for bird watching. Here, you can spot Red-shouldered Hawks, Broad-winged Hawks, and Northern Harriers, especially during migration periods.
Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge: Situated in Morris County, this refuge is known for its diversity of wildlife, including a variety of birds of prey such as Barred Owls, Red-tailed Hawks, and Cooper’s Hawks.
The Hawk Watch Platform at Palisades Interstate Park: This platform provides a great spot for observing migrating hawks, eagles, and falcons, especially during the peak fall migration season. Regular sightings include Red-tailed Hawks, Peregrine Falcons, and occasionally Golden Eagles.
New Jersey’s coastal and woodland habitats host an array of raptors. Discover the vibrancy of New York’s Sky Predators, which resonate with the state’s dynamic spirit. Venture south to Delaware, where the Feathered Hunters echo the state’s quiet beauty. To the west, Pennsylvania’s Birds of Prey symbolize the Keystone State’s natural bounty. Uncover more about these captivating birds with our comprehensive Guide to American Raptors.