From the arid expanses of the Mojave Desert to the mountainous regions of the Sierra Nevada, the varied landscapes of Nevada serve as a hospitable home for a range of wildlife, including numerous hawk species. These impressive birds of prey, recognized by their sharp eyesight, swift flight, and expert hunting skills, are a significant element in Nevada’s diverse ecosystems.
Types of Hawk in Nevada
Swainson’s Hawks: Known for their long-distance migrations, Swainson’s Hawks can be spotted in the open fields and prairies of the Ruby Valley during the summer months.
Cooper’s Hawks: Cooper’s Hawks, renowned for their agile hunting skills, are frequently seen in the woodlands around urban areas such as Reno and Las Vegas.
Northern Harriers: The Northern Harrier, with its distinctive owl-like facial disc, is commonly observed flying low over the wetlands and open areas of the Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge.
Red-tailed Hawks: Easily recognizable with its brick-red tail, the Red-tailed Hawk is a common sight across Nevada, including the arid landscapes of the Great Basin National Park.
Red-shouldered Hawks: Though not as common in Nevada, Red-shouldered Hawks have been spotted in the riparian habitats around the Walker River and Truckee River areas.
Sharp-shinned Hawks: The smallest hawk in North America, the Sharp-shinned Hawk, can often be seen in the forests of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest during migration periods.
Ferruginous Hawks: The Ferruginous Hawk, North America’s largest hawk, prefers the open plains of the central and northern regions of Nevada, particularly near Elko.
Rough-legged Hawks: Rough-legged Hawks are winter visitors to Nevada and can be spotted in open habitats across the state, particularly in the northern areas near Winnemucca.
Northern Goshawks: This powerful bird of prey can occasionally be seen in the high-altitude forests of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Zone-tailed Hawks: The Zone-tailed Hawk, a rarer sight, has been spotted in the warmer southern regions of Nevada, particularly near the Colorado River.
Broad-winged Hawks: While not common in Nevada, Broad-winged Hawks have occasionally been sighted during migration periods in areas like the Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge.
Common Black Hawks: Sightings of the Common Black Hawk are rare but have been recorded in riparian areas around Laughlin and the Las Vegas Wash.
Harris’s Hawks: Known for their cooperative hunting tactics, Harris’s Hawks can be found in the southernmost parts of Nevada, particularly around the city of Henderson.
Nevada Hawks Photo Guide
Where to Spot Hawks in Nevada
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area: This conservation area near Las Vegas is home to several species of raptors, including Red-tailed Hawks and Cooper’s Hawks, who take advantage of the canyon’s cliffs for nesting and hunting.
Spring Mountains National Recreation Area: Located just outside of Las Vegas, this area provides a habitat for hawks like the Sharp-shinned Hawk and Northern Goshawk who enjoy its cooler temperatures and abundant prey.
Ruby Mountains: In the northeastern part of the state, this area is a haven for raptors, including Swainson’s Hawks and Northern Harriers. The Lamoille Canyon, in particular, provides stunning views of these birds soaring above the landscape.
Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park: This park is a great place to see a variety of hawks, such as the Red-tailed Hawk and Cooper’s Hawk. Its diverse habitats and stunning natural beauty make it a must-visit for birdwatchers.
Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge: This refuge near Fallon is an excellent place to see a variety of birds, including migrating hawks. The expansive wetlands and marshes provide a bounty of prey for raptors like the Northern Harrier and Swainson’s Hawk.
| Neighbouring State's Hawks | Hawk Watching Site |
|---|---|
| Hawk Species in Oregon | Bonney Butte Hawk Watch |
| Hawk Species in Idaho | Boise Ridge Hawk Watch |
| Hawk Species in Utah | HawkWatch International's Salt Lake City site |
| Hawk Species in Arizona | Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum |
| Hawk Species in California | Golden Gate Raptor Observatory |