Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the U.S., but its skies are graced by the presence of a diverse range of hawks. Watching hawks in Rhode Island, against the backdrop of its beautiful coastlines, historical towns, and verdant forests, offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the state’s natural heritage.
Types of Hawk in Rhode Island
Red-tailed Hawks: The Red-tailed Hawk, distinguished by its reddish-brown tail, is a common sight soaring over the open fields of Goddard Memorial State Park.
Cooper’s Hawks: Preferring wooded areas, Cooper’s Hawk can often be seen darting between trees in pursuit of prey within the Arcadia Management Area, the state’s largest recreational area.
Sharp-shinned Hawks: With quick, agile flights, the Sharp-shinned Hawks frequent the diverse habitats of the Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge.
Broad-winged Hawks: During their spring and fall migrations, Broad-winged Hawks can often be spotted from the cliffs of Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge, offering an exciting spectacle for birdwatchers.
Ospreys: Known as “fish hawks”, Osprey can be seen hunting along the coastlines of Rhode Island, particularly around the Newport Harbor area where their large nests on platforms and poles are a common sight.
Northern Harriers: With a distinctive low hunting flight, Northern Harriers are regularly seen over the grasslands of Block Island National Wildlife Refuge.
Red-shouldered Hawks: The Beavertail State Park provides an ideal habitat for the Red-shouldered Hawk, known for its distinctive, reddish-brown shoulders and loud, piercing call.
Northern Goshawks: Although elusive, the Northern Goshawk has been spotted within the wooded areas of George Washington State Campground and Management Area, making it a thrilling find for hawk-watchers.
Rough-legged Hawks: In winter, the Rough-legged Hawk migrates south from the Arctic, and has been seen in the open farmlands surrounding the town of Exeter, Rhode Island.
Rhode Island Hawks Photo Guide
Where to Spot Hawks in Rhode Island
Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge: Located in Charlestown, this wildlife refuge hosts several hawk species. Its coastal habitats offer exceptional birdwatching opportunities, particularly during migrations.
Beavertail State Park: Located in Jamestown, the park offers panoramic views of the ocean, making it a spectacular place to spot migrating hawks in the fall.
Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge: This refuge in Middletown provides a wintering habitat for various hawks and offers breathtaking views of the coastline.
Block Island National Wildlife Refuge: Accessible by ferry, Block Island provides a critical stopover habitat for migratory hawks and is renowned for its birdwatching opportunities. Other birds of prey found on Rhode Island include bald eagles, and peregrine falcons as well as anymore. It’s illegal to hunt birds of prey, including the bald eagle or red tail hawks (known for their red tails).
Rhode Island, although small in size, is big on birdwatching, especially when it comes to hawks. Its neighboring states also boast incredible sites for hawk watching, allowing bird enthusiasts to continue their raptor exploration beyond the state’s borders.
| Neighbouring State's Hawks | Hawk Watching Site |
|---|---|
| Hawk Species in Massachusetts | Wachusett Mountain State Reservation |
| Hawk Species in Connecticut | Lighthouse Point Park |