From the rugged Pacific coastline to the high desert and lush forests, Oregon’s varied landscapes serve as a vibrant stage for a host of captivating hawks. Known for their powerful flight and precise hunting skills, these raptors enhance the state’s rich biodiversity and provide a fascinating spectacle for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.
As we explore Oregon’s skies, we’ll uncover the intriguing behaviors and adaptations that make these hawks truly spectacular.
Types of Hawk in Oregon
Red-tailed Hawks: Commonly seen soaring over the wide open spaces of Eastern Oregon’s high desert, they are also often sighted in the Columbia River Gorge area.
Northern Harrier: Frequents the vast wetlands of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, where their distinctive, low gliding flight is a common sight.
Cooper’s Hawks: Primarily a bird of the deciduous forests, these hawks can be often seen in areas like the Mount Hood National Forest.
Sharp-shinned Hawks: Known to inhabit mixed woods, this hawk is a common sight in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest located in southwestern Oregon.
Rough-legged Hawks: Prefers open country and can be often seen during winter months in the agricultural lands of the Willamette Valley.
Red-shouldered Hawks: A year-round resident in the southwest corner of the state, especially near the Smith River area.
Swainson’s Hawks: An inhabitant of open country, often seen during the summer months in the semi-arid regions of Central Oregon, such as near the city of Bend.
Northern Goshawks: Prefers mature, dense forests and can be commonly spotted in the Siuslaw National Forest.
Ferruginous Hawks: Known to frequent the open grasslands of Eastern Oregon, specifically near the city of Burns.
Broad-winged Hawks: Though not as common as others, they can occasionally be sighted during migration season over the Klamath Basin.
Zone-tailed Hawks: This elusive and rare hawk has been sighted only a few times, mainly in the southeast region near the Steens Mountain Wilderness. Their sightings, although extremely rare, generate much excitement among Oregon’s birdwatchers.
Oregon Hawks Photo Guide
Where to Spot Hawks in Oregon
Bald Hill Farm, Corvallis: This conservation area is a great location to see Red-tailed Hawks and Cooper’s Hawks. The vast grasslands and nearby forest provide a rich hunting ground for these raptors.
Steens Mountain: The mountain’s high elevation creates ideal wind conditions for migrating raptors, making it a prime spot for hawk watching. This is one of the few places in Oregon where you might spot the rare Ferruginous Hawk.
Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuges: The refuges are important staging areas for migrating raptors. The vast wetlands attract Northern Harriers, while the open grasslands are hunting grounds for Swainson’s Hawks.
Cape Blanco State Park: Located on Oregon’s southern coast, this park offers a unique opportunity to see coastal raptor migration, including Red-shouldered Hawks and Broad-winged Hawks.
Exploring the hawk diversity in Oregon provides an exciting glimpse into the state’s rich birdlife. Venturing into neighboring states opens new vistas for hawk-watchers, offering a broader perspective on raptor migration patterns and habitats across the Pacific Northwest.
| Neighbouring State's Hawks | Hawk Watching Site |
|---|---|
| Hawk Species in Washington | Chelan Ridge Hawk Watch |
| Hawk Species in Idaho | Boise Ridge Hawk Watch |
| Hawk Species in Nevada | Goshute Mountains Hawk Watch |
| Hawk Species in California | Golden Gate Raptor Observatory |