Bathed in year-round sunshine and defined by diverse landscapes, Florida is a treasure trove of unique wildlife, with birds of prey playing a particularly compelling role. From the quiet backwaters to the vibrant coasts, these raptors grace the skies with their grandeur, embodying the dynamic spirit of the Sunshine State. Their presence, ranging from the common to the rare, contributes to the rich tapestry of Florida’s vibrant ecosystems.
List of Birds of Prey in Florida
Eagles – Bald Eagle (Golden eagles are rare visitors as well)
Falcons – Peregrine Falcon, Merlin, American Kestrel (Gyrfalcon is a rare visitor)
Hawks – Sharp-shinned Hawk, Cooper’s Hawk, Short-tailed Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, Red-shouldered Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, Mississippi Kite, White-tailed Kite, Northern Harrier (Goshawk and Rough-legged Hawk are rare visitors)
Kites – Swallow-Tailed Kite, Snail Kite
Owls – Barred Owl, Great Horned Owl
Vultures & Others –Turkey Vulture, Black Vulture, Osprey, Limpkin (Common Buzzard is a rare visitor)
Where to Spot Florida Birds of Prey
1. Everglades National Park: As one of the largest national parks in the U.S., the Everglades offers a rich variety of birds of prey, including Ospreys, Red-shouldered Hawks, and Snail Kites. The River of Grass is an excellent place to spot these magnificent creatures.
2. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge: Situated near Cape Canaveral, this refuge is home to many species of raptors, including Bald Eagles, Peregrine Falcons, and various types of hawks. A visit here may offer a rare glimpse of a nesting pair of Bald Eagles.
3. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge: This refuge, located on Sanibel Island, is an excellent location for birdwatching, boasting a wide variety of species, including Ospreys and Red-tailed Hawks.
4. Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary: Near Naples, this sanctuary is an Audubon Center and hosts a diversity of raptors, from the Barred Owl to the Cooper’s Hawk. blue gray wings
5. St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge: Located in the Panhandle, this refuge is a wintering ground for many migratory birds of prey, including the Peregrine Falcon and the American Kestrel.
As fascinating as Florida’s raptors are, the journey doesn’t stop at the state border. Venture north to discover the impressive birds of prey in Georgia. The Peach State’s diverse habitats serve as a rich tapestry of life for a multitude of hawks, eagles, and falcons. For a different perspective, cross the state line westward into Alabama hosts a myriad of magnificent preying birds, each species with its own unique allure. Our comprehensive master guide to US Birds of Prey takes you across the country, spotlighting the remarkable variety that grace the skies of America.