Maryland, with its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife, plays host to a remarkable array of hawks. These majestic birds of prey, known for their keen eyesight, powerful wings, and impressive hunting skills, captivate both nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike.
From the rugged mountains of western Maryland to the coastal marshes of the Eastern Shore, these aerial predators can be found soaring through the skies, hunting for their next meal.
Types of Hawk in Maryland
Red-tailed Hawk: - can be found throughout the state, including locations such as Assateague Island National Seashore, Catoctin Mountain Park, and the Chesapeake Bay area.
Broad-winged Hawk: - during migration seasons, the Broad-winged Hawk can be observed in Maryland, often forming impressive kettles of soaring birds. Look for them in areas like Sugarloaf Mountain, Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, and the C&O Canal National Historical Park.
Cooper’s Hawk: Cooper’s Hawks can be spotted in locations such as Patuxent Research Refuge, Green Ridge State Forest, and the Baltimore area.
Sharp-shinned Hawk: Sharp-shinned Hawks can be found in wooded habitats across Maryland. Keep an eye out for them in areas like Gunpowder Falls State Park, Seneca Creek State Park, and the Cumberland region.
Red-shouldered Hawk: Red-shouldered Hawks can be observed in locations such as Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, Patapsco Valley State Park, and the Frederick area.
Northern Harrier: - preference for marshy habitats, the Northern Harrier can be spotted in areas such as Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge, Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, and the Kent Island region.
Osprey: Ospreys can be seen nesting and fishing in locations like Assateague Island National Seashore, Chesapeake Bay Bridge, and the St. Michaels area.
Northern Goshawk: Northern Goshawks can occasionally be observed in Maryland’s mature forests. Look for them in locations such as Savage River State Forest, Green Ridge State Forest, and the Deep Creek Lake area.
Rough-legged Hawk: During winter months, the Rough-legged Hawk can be seen in Assateague Island National Seashore, Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, and the Ocean City area.
Maryland Hawks Photo Guide
Where to Spot Hawks in Maryland
Assateague Island National Seashore: Situated along Maryland’s eastern coast, Assateague Island offers a diverse habitat attracting a wide variety of hawks during migration. Look for Red-tailed Hawks, Broad-winged Hawks, Ospreys, and Northern Harriers soaring above the marshes and dunes.
Catoctin Mountain Park: Located in Frederick County, Catoctin Mountain Park provides a mix of forested areas and open fields, attracting an array of hawk species. Red-shouldered Hawks, Cooper’s Hawks, and Sharp-shinned Hawks are commonly spotted here, along with the occasional Northern Goshawk.
Patuxent Research Refuge: This expansive wildlife refuge in Laurel, Maryland, features diverse habitats, including wetlands and woodlands. It offers an excellent opportunity to observe Red-shouldered Hawks, Cooper’s Hawks, and the occasional Bald Eagle soaring above the marshes and hunting grounds.
Gunpowder Falls State Park: Situated in Baltimore County, Gunpowder Falls State Park encompasses various ecosystems, from dense woodlands to riverside habitats. Here, birdwatchers can spot Red-tailed Hawks, Sharp-shinned Hawks, and Red-shouldered Hawks soaring through the tree canopy.
Neighboring states such as Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Delaware offer their own unique hawk-watching sites, contributing to a comprehensive birding experience in the Mid-Atlantic region.