Birds of prey, also known as raptors, serve as compelling embodiments of the wilderness and natural diversity within the state of Illinois. With a diverse array of landscapes in Illinois, from the rolling prairies to deep forests, each provides a unique habitat for a myriad of these majestic creatures. Their broad distribution throughout the state not only highlights Illinois’ rich biodiversity but also its thriving ecosystems.
List of Birds of Prey in Illinois
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Peregrine Falcon - Having recovered from near-extinction, they can now be found nesting on tall buildings and bridges in cities like Chicago.
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American Kestrel - The most common falcon in Illinois, these small birds of prey can be seen perched on wires along the road, looking for prey.
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Bald Eagle - Illinois sees a large influx of Bald Eagles in winter, particularly near the Mississippi River.
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Turkey Vulture - These birds are common across the state and can be seen soaring in the sky during the warmer months.
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Black Vulture - Less common than Turkey Vultures, they are slowly expanding their range northwards into southern Illinois.
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Red-tailed Hawk - This is the most common hawk species in Illinois and is found in a variety of habitats including forests, prairies, and urban areas.
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Cooper’s Hawk - These hawks are found in woodlands throughout the state, including suburban and urban areas.
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Sharp-shinned Hawk - Less common than Cooper’s Hawks, they can still be spotted in wooded areas across the state.
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Red-shouldered Hawk - These hawks are typically found in the southern part of the state, particularly in the Shawnee National Forest.
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Broad-winged Hawk - A common summer resident, these hawks prefer the state’s deciduous forests.
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Rough-legged Hawk - These hawks visit Illinois in winter, commonly seen in the state’s open country.
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Osprey - These birds of prey are often seen near large bodies of water across the state during their migration.
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Great Horned Owl - The most common owl in Illinois, they are found across the state in a variety of habitats.
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Barred Owl - Mostly found in the heavily wooded areas of the state, particularly in the southern regions.
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Eastern Screech-Owl - These small owls can be found across the state, commonly nesting in tree cavities in forests and suburban areas.
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American Barn Owl - Found in open rural areas, these owls are becoming increasingly rare.
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Short-eared Owl - These owls prefer open fields and can be found across the state, particularly during winter.
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Northern Saw-whet Owl - These elusive small owls are found in dense forests across Illinois.
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Snowy Owl - Rare winter visitors to Illinois, they can be seen in open fields and along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Where to Spot Illinois’s Birds of Prey
Starved Rock State Park, Oglesby: Known for its canyons and waterfalls, this state park is also a popular spot for birdwatching. During winter, Bald Eagles are a common sight here, especially around the Illinois River.
Mississippi Palisades State Park, Savanna: This park offers great opportunities to observe Red-tailed Hawks, Bald Eagles, and several species of owls, thanks to its cliffside habitat and proximity to the Mississippi River.
Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge, Lewistown: Situated along the Illinois River, this refuge is home to numerous birds of prey including Bald Eagles, Peregrine Falcons, and a variety of hawks and owls.
Cache River State Natural Area, Belknap: This area is home to diverse bird species including various raptors such as the Barred Owl and Red-shouldered Hawk. The Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge within the area provides additional birdwatching opportunities.
Sand Ridge State Forest, Forest City: This is the largest of Illinois’s state forests, and its mixed sand prairie and woodland habitat is ideal for spotting Red-tailed Hawks, Cooper’s Hawks, and Great Horned Owls.
The midwestern charm of Illinois is complemented by its variety of birds of prey. Witness the tenacity of Indiana’s Feathered Predators, mirroring the Hoosier State’s lively spirit. Experience the resilience of Wisconsin’s Birds of Prey, a testament to the state’s rugged northern charm. For a deeper exploration of these creatures, check out our Birds of Prey Guide.