Kentucky, a state rich in natural beauty and diverse ecosystems, serves as a home for a multitude of wildlife species. Among its many inhabitants, one particular group of birds of prey in Kentucky captures attention – the hawks. This state’s unique geography, from the Appalachian Mountains to the Mississippi River, offers an ideal habitat for these magnificent birds of prey.
Types of Hawks in Kentucky
Red-Tailed Hawks: As the most common hawk in North America, you can spot Red-Tailed Hawks perched high in the trees around the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park.
Cooper’s Hawks: Often mistaken for the similar-looking Sharp-shinned Hawk, the Cooper’s Hawk can be seen in suburban areas like Lexington and Louisville.
Red-Shouldered Hawks: With a preference for woodlands, the Red-Shouldered Hawk frequents the Daniel Boone National Forest, making their nests in tall trees near water bodies.
Northern Harrier: These hawks love open grasslands and can often be seen gliding low over the fields in the Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area.
Sharp-Shinned Hawks: This agile bird hunter can be spotted swooping between trees in the diverse landscapes of Mammoth Cave National Park.
Broad-Winged Hawks: During migration season, crowds gather in Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest to witness the spectacle of Broad-Winged Hawks soaring in the sky.
Rough-Legged Hawks: A winter visitor to Kentucky, the Rough-Legged Hawks can be spotted in the Barren River Lake State Resort Park during the colder months.
Ferruginous Hawks: While rare in Kentucky, keen-eyed birdwatchers might be lucky enough to spot a Ferruginous Hawks in the open spaces around the Kentucky Downs.
Kentucky Hawks Photo Guide
Where to Spot Hawks in Kentucky
Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area: This large inland peninsula offers a diverse range of habitats attracting a variety of hawks, including Red-tailed Hawks and Northern Harriers.
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park: Located at the intersection of Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia, this park is a great location for spotting Broad-winged Hawks during their migration period.
Daniel Boone National Forest: This extensive forest is home to various hawk species, including the Red-shouldered Hawks and Cooper’s Hawks.
Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest: A hotspot for hawk migration, particularly for Broad-winged Hawks in the fall.
Barren River Lake State Resort Park: This park, with its mix of open water, wetlands, and woodlands, is a great winter spot for Rough-legged Hawks.
Kentucky’s rich avian biodiversity offers ample opportunities for hawk-watching. It’s geographical location, bordered by several states, presents unique opportunities for bird enthusiasts to experience the rich diversity of hawk species in the region.
| Neighbouring State's Hawks | Hawk Watching Site |
|---|---|
| Hawks in Indiana | Indiana Dunes State Park |
| Hawks in Illinois | Illinois Beach State Park |
| Hawks in Missouri | Rockwoods Reservation |
| Hawks in Tennessee | Radnor Lake State Park |
| Hawks in Virginia | Rockfish Gap Hawk Watch |
| Hawks in West Virginia | Hanging Rock Raptor Observatory |
| Hawks in Ohio | Lake Erie Hawk Watch at Magee Marsh Wildlife Area |