Across the varied landscapes of Ohio, from the serene shores of Lake Erie to the rolling hills of the Appalachian Plateau, a striking array of hawks commands the skies. These majestic raptors, known for their sharp eyes and powerful flight, offer an enchanting spectacle for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Whether you’re an experienced birder or a beginner, the journey of exploring Ohio’s birds of prey and hawks promises a rich and rewarding experience.
Types of Hawk in Ohio
Red-tailed Hawks: One of the most widespread species, they can frequently be spotted soaring above Ohio’s open country, particularly in the agricultural areas surrounding the city of Lima.
Red-shouldered Hawks: These are commonly sighted in the wooded wetlands of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Northeast Ohio.
Cooper’s Hawks: Found throughout the state, their dense woodland habitat makes them a common sighting in areas like Mohican State Forest.
Broad-winged Hawks: Often seen during migration season in the vast expanse of the Wayne National Forest located in Southeastern Ohio.
Sharp-shinned Hawks: Known to frequent mature forests, a good place to spot them is in the Hocking Hills region.
Northern Harrier: Their distinctive low flying hunting style can be observed in the marshy areas of the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge, located along the Lake Erie coastline.
Rough-legged Hawks: Winter visitors to Ohio, they can be seen in open fields and meadows, particularly in the rural areas of Western Ohio.
Northern Goshawks: This secretive bird is a rare sight but has been spotted in the dense forests of the Shawnee State Park in Southern Ohio.
Osprey: These fish-eating hawks have made a comeback and can now be found nesting near large bodies of water such as the Hoover Reservoir in Westerville.
Ohio Hawks Photo Guide
Where to Spot Hawks in Ohio
Lake Erie Birding Trail: Comprising 84 individual sites, this trail is a migratory pathway for many hawk species. Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, a part of this trail, is an excellent location to watch Broad-winged Hawks and Northern Harriers during migration seasons.
Hocking Hills State Park: Located in Southeastern Ohio, this park with its varied terrain is a good location to spot Red-shouldered Hawks and Cooper’s Hawks.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park: This national park, situated between Akron and Cleveland, is known for its rich biodiversity and is a preferred habitat for several species of hawks including the Red-tailed Hawk and Sharp-shinned Hawk.
Shawnee State Park: This park is located in the Appalachian foothills and its dense forests and ample water bodies attract a variety of hawks, including the Northern Goshawk.
| Neighbouring State's Hawks | Hawk Watching Site |
|---|---|
| Hawk Species in Michigan | Detroit River Hawk Watch |
| Hawk Species in Indiana | Eagle Creek Park |
| Hawk Species in Kentucky | Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest |
| Hawk Species in West Virginia | Hanging Rock Raptor Observatory |
| Hawk Species in Pennsylvania | Hawk Mountain Sanctuary |