In the captivating landscapes of Utah, from its stark desert expanses to its alpine forests, a diverse array of hawks takes to the sky. These formidable raptors, renowned for their extraordinary flight and hunting prowess, provide a compelling spectacle for all who appreciate nature’s wonders. Observing hawks and other birds of prey in Utah, against the backdrop of its breathtaking scenery, offers a unique opportunity to connect with the state’s diverse wildlife.
Types of Hawk in Utah
Red-tailed Hawks: The Red-tailed Hawk is a familiar sight soaring over the wide expanses of Canyonlands National Park, showcasing its characteristic red tail in the bright Utah sun.
Swainson’s Hawks: Famous for its long migrations, the Swainson’s Hawk can often be seen in the agricultural lands surrounding the town of Brigham City during summer months.
Northern Harriers: Distinguished by its unique hunting style, the Northern Harrier can be spotted gliding low over the wetlands of Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge.
Cooper’s Hawks: Known for its agility, Cooper’s Hawk is frequently found in the wooded areas of Dixie National Forest, adeptly navigating through dense foliage in search of prey.
Ferruginous Hawks: As the largest hawk species in North America, the Ferruginous Hawk’s impressive figure often adorns the skies over the Uinta Basin, where it hunts for small mammals.
Sharp-shinned Hawks: These secretive birds of prey are often sighted in the diverse ecosystems of Bryce Canyon National Park, darting between trees in pursuit of smaller birds.
Rough-legged Hawks: Winter brings the Rough-legged Hawk to the open landscapes around Salt Lake City, where it’s known to hover mid-air before swooping down on unsuspecting prey.
Northern Goshawks: The secluded, old-growth forests of Ashley National Forest serve as a preferred habitat for the elusive Northern Goshawk, a challenging and rewarding sight for any birdwatcher.
Broad-winged Hawks: Spotting a Broad-winged Hawk is a rare treat in the Wasatch Mountains, where they pass through during their long migration journey.
Common Black Hawks: A rare sight in Utah, the Common Black Hawk is occasionally spotted along the riparian corridors of the San Juan River, particularly in the vicinity of Bluff.
Red-shouldered Hawks: The riparian zones of Moab are occasionally graced by the presence of the Red-shouldered Hawk, a visitor from the more humid eastern regions of the country.
Zone-tailed Hawks: This rare raptor mimics the flight pattern of the harmless Turkey Vulture to deceive its prey, and can sometimes be seen circling Zion National Park.
Gray Hawks: The Gray Hawk is a rare visitor to Utah, but there have been confirmed sightings in the lush riparian zones near the town of St. George. Keep an eye out for its distinctive white-banded tail.
Utah Hawks Photo Guide
Where to Spot Hawks in Utah
Goshute Mountains: Recognized as one of the premier raptor migration sites in North America, birdwatchers can spot Ferruginous Hawks and Red-tailed Hawks, among other species, especially during the fall migration season as they make their way to Central America.
Antelope Island State Park: Located in the Great Salt Lake, this park attracts a variety of hawks, including Northern Harriers and Cooper’s Hawks, due to its unique lake habitat and abundant prey.
Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge: The refuge is an excellent spot for watching Swainson’s Hawks. Its wetland habitat is not only attractive to hawks but also a variety of bird species, making it a bird watcher’s paradise.
Zion National Park: The park’s diverse landscape of plateaus and canyons provide the ideal habitat for hawks such as the Red-shouldered Hawk and Broad-winged Hawk.
| Neighbouring State's Hawks | Hawk Watching Site |
|---|---|
| Hawk Species in Idaho | Boise Ridge Hawk Watch |
| Hawk Species in Wyoming | Teton Raptor Center |
| Hawk Species in Colorado | Rocky Mountain Hawk Watch |
| Hawk Species in Arizona | Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum |
| Hawk Species in Nevada | Goshute Mountains Hawk Watch |
| Hawk Species in New Mexico | Sandia Crest Hawk Watch Site |