Idaho’s breathtaking landscapes, characterized by expansive plains, rugged mountains, and pristine lakes, harbor an array of wildlife including a rich variety of hawks. These awe-inspiring birds of prey, known for their hunting acumen, commanding presence, and thrilling flight, are an integral part of Idaho’s diverse ecosystem.
Their distinctive cries echo across the state, from the depths of the wilderness to the edges of urban areas, embodying the wild essence of the Gem State.
List of Hawks in Idaho
Idaho, with its varied landscapes ranging from mountains and forests to plains and river valleys, is home to a diverse range of hawk species. Here is an ordered list of the hawks you can find in the state, sorted by their abundance:
Red-Tailed Hawk - can be found throughout the state and are often seen soaring in the sky or perched on roadside poles. The open valleys of the Snake River Plain are good places to observe these birds.
Swainson’s Hawk - Swainson’s Hawk is a migratory species that spends summers in Idaho. The Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is a notable place to spot these hawks during migration seasons.
Northern Harrier - commonly found in the marshy lowlands and grasslands of Idaho. With their owl-like facial disk and low hunting flight, they can often be seen in places like the Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
Cooper’s Hawk - Cooper’s Hawks, often found in forests and woodlands, are fairly common in Idaho look out for them in the forests surrounding Coeur d’Alene.
Ferruginous Hawk - prefers open country, these large hawks can be seen in the prairies of Idaho, particularly around the Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area.
Rough-Legged Hawk - Rough-Legged Hawks, are winter visitors to Idaho, can often be spotted in the open fields and plains during the colder months. The Camas National Wildlife Refuge is a good place to see these birds in winter.
Sharp-Shinned Hawk - Sharp-Shinned Hawks are relatively elusive due to their preference for dense forests. These small hawks are present in the forested areas of Idaho, like the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests.
Northern Goshawk - resides in the large forest tracts of Idaho. These secretive hawks are more difficult to spot but can be found in places like the Boise National Forest.
Broad-Winged Hawk - less common in Idaho but can be found during their migratory seasons. Watch for these small raptors around the Sawtooth National Recreation Area in the spring and fall.
Red-Shouldered Hawk - east common in Idaho, but occasional sightings have been reported. These hawks prefer woodlands near water and might be spotted around places like the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge.
Where to Spot Hawks in Idaho
Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area
Located near Boise, the Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area is renowned for its remarkable concentration of nesting raptors, including various hawk species. This unique area provides critical habitat for Red-tailed Hawks, Swainson’s Hawks, Ferruginous Hawks, and other raptor species. Visitors can witness the impressive aerial displays and nesting behaviors of these majestic birds.
Hell’s Canyon
Straddling the borders of Idaho, Oregon, and Washington, Hell’s Canyon offers stunning vistas and diverse ecosystems that attract a wide range of bird species, including hawks. The rugged cliffs and expansive forests serve as habitats for species such as the Red-tailed Hawk, Rough-legged Hawk, and Northern Harrier. Exploring the canyons and trails in Hell’s Canyon presents opportunities for captivating hawk-watching experience.
| Neighboring State | Best Hawk Watching Sites |
|---|---|
| Washington Hawks | Chelan Ridge Hawk Watch |
| Oregon Hawks | Bonney Butte Hawk Watch |
| Nevada Hawks | Goshute Mountains Hawk Watch |
| Utah Hawks | Antelope Island State Park |
| Montana Hawks | Bridger Mountains Hawk Watch |
| Wyoming Hawks | Teton Raptor Center Hawk Watch |