Kansas, known for its expansive prairies and diverse landscapes, is a veritable haven for an array of wildlife, including a vibrant variety of hawks. These impressive birds of prey, boasting keen hunting skills and unique adaptations, are an integral part of Kansas’s ecological fabric. The state’s varied terrain, from its tallgrass prairies to its deciduous forests, provides the ideal habitat for these magnificent creatures.
Types of Hawk in Kansas
Red-tailed Hawks: Easily spotted in the prairie landscapes, the Red-tailed Hawk is a regular sight in the wide-open spaces of the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve.
Northern Harrier: Known for its low, gliding flight, the Northern Harrier is often seen hunting over the wetlands of the Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area.
Cooper’s Hawks: This agile bird hunter is frequently seen in the wooded areas of suburban towns like Overland Park and Topeka.
Swainson’s Hawks: A common sight in summer, the Swainson’s Hawk thrives in the open country around the Cimarron National Grassland.
Red-shouldered Hawks: Preferring woodlands, the Red-shouldered Hawk can be spotted around the Cottonwood River near the Marion Reservoir.
Sharp-shinned Hawks: This small hawk is a frequent sight swooping between the trees in the forests surrounding the Clinton Lake.
Ferruginous Hawks: The large, open spaces of the Smoky Valley Ranch are an ideal habitat for this largest of North American hawks.
Broad-winged Hawks: During migration season, the skies over the Elk City State Park become a staging ground for flocks of Broad-winged Hawks.
Rough-legged Hawks: A winter visitor, the Rough-legged Hawk can often be spotted soaring above the fields of the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge during the colder months.
Northern Goshawks: Although rare, this elusive bird can sometimes be spotted deep in the woodlands of the Perry State Park.
Gray Hawks: A rare but exciting find, the Gray Hawk has been spotted on occasion in the riparian woodlands along the Arkansas River in South Central Kansas.
Kansas Hawks Photo Guide
Where to Spot Hawks in Kansas
Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area: This wetland in central Kansas attracts many birds of prey such as the Northern Harrier and Red-tailed Hawk due to its abundant prey.
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve: With vast open areas, this preserve is ideal for observing soaring hawks like the Swainson’s and Ferruginous Hawk.
Quivira National Wildlife Refuge: The diverse habitats in this refuge attract several species of hawks, including the Red-shouldered Hawk and Broad-winged Hawk.
Cimarron National Grassland: The grassland provides ideal hunting grounds for hawks, making it a hotspot for hawk watchers.
Milford Nature Center: Located near Junction City, this nature center is a great spot to observe various hawk species throughout the year, including the Cooper’s Hawk.
Kansas, with its diverse landscapes and abundance of wildlife, is a veritable haven for hawks and those who enjoy observing them. It’s central location also allows for easy exploration of neighboring states, each with their unique hawk species and bird-watching sites.
| Neighbouring State's Hawks | Hawk Watching Site |
|---|---|
| Hawks in Nebraska | Hitchcock Nature Center |
| Hawks in Missouri | Rockwoods Reservation |
| Hawks in Oklahoma | Black Mesa Nature Preserve |
| Hawks in Colorado | Rocky Mountain Hawk Watch |
The best periods for hawk watching typically occur during their migration seasons in the spring and autumn.