Nestled amidst the great lakes and expansive forests, Wisconsin serves as a home for diverse wildlife, including a noteworthy variety of hawks. These powerful birds of prey, distinguished by their excellent hunting abilities, dramatic physical features, and elegant flight, play a crucial role in the Badger State’s vibrant ecosystem.
Whether flying high over the lake shores or perched in the northern woods, hawks in Wisconsin create a captivating spectacle for nature enthusiasts and casual observers alike. T
Types of Hawk in Wisconsin
Red-tailed Hawks The Red-tailed Hawk is a common and widespread hawk species in Wisconsin, found throughout the state in diverse habitats including open fields, woodlands, and urban areas. Look for them in locations such as the Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area and the Kettle Moraine State Forest.
Cooper’s Hawks Cooper’s Hawks are frequently observed in Wisconsin’s woodlands, tall trees, suburban neighborhoods, and city parks. Keep an eye out for them in places like the Milwaukee County Parks and the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest.
Sharp-shinned Hawks Sharp-Shinned Hawks can be seen in Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area, known for its diverse habitats and bird species.
Red-shouldered Hawks Red-shouldered Hawks can be found in Wisconsin’s riparian habitats and wetland areas, especially along rivers and lakeshores. Observe them in locations such as the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge and the Horicon National Wildlife Refuge.
Broad-winged Hawks Broad-winged Hawks breed in Wisconsin’s forests and can be seen during their migration periods, often forming kettles (large swirling flocks) during their journey. Look for them in locations such as the Southern Kettle Moraine State Forest and the Northern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest.
Swainson’s Hawk: Swainson’s Hawks are rare in Wisconsin, but they have been occasionally spotted in open agricultural areas near Necedah National Wildlife Refuge.
Northern Harrier: Head to Buena Vista Grasslands in Portage County, a large grassland area, to spot Northern Harriers gliding low over the fields.
Ferruginous Hawk: Ferruginous Hawks are rare visitors to Wisconsin, but they have been occasionally sighted in the Crex Meadows Wildlife Area in Grantsburg.
Northern Goshawk: Look for Northern Goshawks in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, particularly in the forested areas of Vilas County.
Rough-Legged Hawk: During winter months, drive along the highways near Sauk Prairie and Buena Vista Grasslands to spot Rough-Legged Hawks perched on utility poles or hovering over fields.
Wisconsin Hawks Photo Guide
Where to Spot Hawks in Wisconsin
Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory: Situated in Duluth, Wisconsin, this observatory is globally recognized for its annual fall migration count of raptors, providing opportunities to see a variety of hawk species.
Devil’s Lake State Park: The high cliffs around the lake provide an ideal viewing platform for migrating hawks, especially during the fall migration season.
Horicon Marsh: The largest freshwater marsh in the United States, Horicon Marsh attracts a variety of raptors, including several species of hawks.
Wyalusing State Park: This park, where the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers converge, offers excellent viewing opportunities for migrating raptors, including hawks.
Wisconsin, with its varied landscape and prime location along migration routes, offers some fantastic hawk-watching spots. Exploring neighboring states and their unique bird-watching locations can add even more diversity to your hawk-watching experience.
| Neighbouring State | Best Hawk Spotting Site |
|---|---|
| Illinois Hawks | Starved Rock State Park |
| Iowa Hawks | Effigy Mounds National Monument |
| Michigan Hawks | Whitefish Point Bird Observatory |
| Minnesota Hawks | Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory, Duluth |