West Virginia, with its rugged mountains and extensive forests, hosts an impressive array of wildlife, including a variety of hawks.
These formidable birds of prey, admired for their sharp hunting abilities, distinctive appearances, grace the skies across West Virginia, their compelling presence felt from the Appalachian highlands to the river valleys.
Types of Hawk in West Virginia
Red-tailed Hawks: The Red-tailed Hawk is a widespread species found throughout West Virginia, including areas such as Kanawha State Forest and Coopers Rock State Forest.
Cooper’s HawksCooper’s Hawks can be observed in wooded areas and urban parks across West Virginia, with notable sightings reported in locations such as Charleston and Morgantown.
Red-shouldered Hawks Red-shouldered Hawks are commonly found in forested regions near rivers and wetlands, such as along the Ohio River and the Monongahela National Forest.
Sharp-shinned Hawks Sharp-shinned Hawks can be seen in woodland areas throughout West Virginia, including state parks like Watoga State Park and Beech Fork State Park.
Broad-winged Hawks Broad-winged Hawks breed in West Virginia’s forests and can be observed during their migration periods, particularly in areas like the New River Gorge National Park and Seneca Rocks.
Northern Harriers Northern Harriers are often found in open areas, including wetlands and marshes. Places like the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge offer opportunities to spot them in West Virginia.
Northern Goshawk Northern Goshawks (also known as the goose hawk) can be found in the mature, high-elevation forests of Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia.
Rough-legged Hawk During winter months, search for Rough-legged Hawks in open agricultural areas and grasslands of the Eastern Panhandle region in West Virginia.
West Virginia Hawks Photo Guide
Where to Spot Hawks in West Virginia
Hanging Rock Raptor Observatory, Monroe County
Located atop Peters Mountain, this observatory offers an ideal vantage point for observing migrating hawks, eagles, and falcons in the fall.
Cooper's Rock State Forest, Bruceton Mills:
Covering over 12,000 acres, this state forest is home to a variety of hawk species and other West Virginia birds of prey such as great horned owls and bald eagles and provides an excellent opportunity to observe these majestic birds in their natural habitat.
Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Davis:
This 16,000-acre refuge is a popular spot for hawk watching, especially during migration seasons.
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Fayetteville:
Covering more than 70,000 acres, this national park provides a habitat for a variety of hawk species, offering great bird-watching opportunities.
West Virginia, with its unique blend of forested mountains and river valleys, offers exceptional opportunities for hawk watching. Its neighboring states also offer a range of unique habitats, making the wider region a paradise for those seeking to observe these birds of prey.
| Neighbouring State | Best Hawk Spotting Site |
|---|---|
| Kentucky Hawks | Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest |
| Maryland Hawks | Sugarloaf Mountain |
| Ohio Hawks | Magee Marsh Wildlife Area |
| Pennsylvania Hawks | Hawk Mountain Sanctuary |
| Virginia Hawks | Shenandoah National Park |