Wisconsin, with its varied ecosystems ranging from forests and grasslands to wetlands and water bodies, offers a rich tapestry of habitats for a diverse array of Birds of Prey. Wisconsin’s skies and landscapes are often graced with the sight of these magnificent raptors, offering ample opportunities for bird enthusiasts to marvel at their splendour and study their behaviours.
Types of Birds of Prey in Wisconsin
| Bird's Name | Size | Frequency in Wisconsin | Best Place to Spot in Wisconsin | Best Viewing Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bald Eagle | Large | Common | Near water bodies | All year |
| Red-tailed Hawk | Medium | Very Common | Open fields, forest edges | All year |
| Cooper's Hawk | Medium | Common | Forested habitats and suburbs | All year |
| Northern Goshawk | Large | Uncommon | Dense forests | All year |
| Osprey | Large | Common | Near water bodies | Spring and Summer |
| Peregrine Falcon | Medium | Uncommon | Urban areas and cliffs | All year |
| American Kestrel | Small | Common | Open fields | Spring and Summer |
| Sharp-shinned Hawk | Small | Uncommon | Forested areas | All year |
| Northern Harrier | Medium | Uncommon | Grasslands and marshes | All year |
| Broad-winged Hawk | Medium | Common | Forested areas | Spring and Fall migration |
| Rough-legged Hawk | Medium | Uncommon | Open fields | Winter |
| Turkey Vulture | Large | Very Common | Variety of habitats | Spring through Fall |
| Red-shouldered Hawk | Medium | Uncommon | Mature forests | All year |
| Golden Eagle | Large | Rare | Open country, hills, and mountains | Fall through Spring |
| Great Horned Owl | Large | Common | Forests and wooded areas | All year |
| Barred Owl | Medium | Common | Dense woods and forests | All year |
| Eastern Screech-Owl | Small | Common | Wooded areas | All year |
| Northern Saw-whet Owl | Small | Uncommon | Dense forests | Fall through Spring |
| Snowy Owl | Large | Rare | Open fields and farmland | Winter |
| Merlin | Small | Uncommon | Open habitats, often near water | Spring through Fall |
| Swainson's Hawk | Large | Rare | Open country | Summer |
Wisconsin's Birds of Prey Photo Guides
Where to Spot Wisconsin’s Birds of Prey
Horicon Marsh: As the largest freshwater cattail marsh in the United States, it is a paradise for bird watchers. Home to a diverse range of raptors including the Red-tailed Hawk, Cooper’s Hawk, and Northern Harrier. It’s particularly good during migration periods.
Devil’s Lake State Park: Nestled in the Baraboo Hills, this location offers a varied habitat of forest, wetlands, and cliffs, making it a great place for spotting Peregrine Falcons, Red-shouldered Hawks, and owls.
Crex Meadows Wildlife Area: This vast wetland and grassland habitat located near Grantsburg is an excellent location for Northern Harriers, Sharp-shinned Hawks, and the occasional Bald Eagle.
Mississippi River Flyway: This major migratory route is a superb place for observing birds of prey. Watch for Bald Eagles, especially around the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, Minnesota, which is just across the river from Wisconsin.
Kettle Moraine State Forest: This area, with its diverse ecosystem including forests, wetlands, and prairies, is a great place to spot Red-tailed Hawks, Cooper’s Hawks, and Great Horned Owls.
Wisconsin’s lakes and forests host a wide range of raptors. Discover the natural beauty embodied by Minnesota’s Sky Predators. Journey south to Illinois’ birds of prey, where the Feathered Hunters echo the Prairie State’s varied ecosystems. To the east, Michigan’s Winged Warriors represent the Great Lakes State’s enchanting beauty. Enhance your knowledge about these avian marvels with our all-encompassing Guide to American Raptors.