Birds of prey in New York encompass a diverse array of species and these magnificent birds play vital ecological roles as top predators, contributing to the balance of local ecosystems. They possess impressive aerial prowess, sharp talons, and keen eyesight, enabling them to hunt and capture prey efficiently.
New York offers a range of habitats suitable for birds of prey, providing ample opportunities for observing and appreciating their majestic presence in the state’s natural landscapes.
Types of Birds of Prey in New York
| Bird's Name | Size | Frequency in New York | Best Place to Spot in New York | Best Viewing Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bald Eagle | Large | Common | Hudson River Valley, Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge | All year |
| Great Horned Owl | Large | Very Common | Throughout New York | All year |
| Red-tailed Hawk | Large | Very Common | Throughout New York | Spring - Fall |
| Rough-legged Hawk | Large | Common | Northern New York in winter | Winter |
| Osprey | Large | Common | Coastal areas, lakes, and rivers | Spring - Summer |
| Snowy Owl | Large | Rare | Northern New York during irruption years | Winter |
| Great Gray Owl | Large | Very Rare | Adirondack Mountains during irruption years | Winter |
| Turkey Vulture | Large | Common | Throughout New York | Spring - Fall |
| Black Vulture | Large | Rare | Southern New York | Spring - Fall |
| Cooper's Hawk | Medium | Very Common | Urban and suburban areas | Spring - Fall |
| Red-shouldered Hawk | Medium | Common | Forested areas | Spring - Fall |
| Broad-winged Hawk | Medium | Common | Forested areas | Spring - Fall |
| Peregrine Falcon | Medium | Rare | Urban areas, Adirondack Mountains | Spring - Fall |
| Barred Owl | Medium | Common | Forested areas | All year |
| Short-eared Owl | Medium | Rare | Open grasslands in winter | Winter |
| American Barn Owl | Medium | Very Rare | Farmland areas in Long Island | Spring - Fall |
| Sharp-shinned Hawk | Small | Common | Throughout New York | Spring - Fall |
| Northern Saw-whet Owl | Small | Very Common | Forested areas | All year |
| American Kestrel | Small | Very Common | Open countryside | Spring - Fall |
Other hawks in New York which are very rare visitors include the northern harrier, the sparrow hawk and Northern Goshawks. See our guide to Hawks in New York.
Birds of Prey in New York Photo Guides
Where to Spot New York’s Birds of Prey
Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge: This bird-watching hotspot in Seneca Falls is home to several species of raptors, including Bald Eagles, Northern Harriers, and Red-tailed Hawks. The extensive wetlands provide an ideal environment for these birds of prey.
Adirondack Park: As the largest park in the lower 48 states, Adirondack Park offers extensive wilderness areas where you can spot various raptors such as the Broad-winged Hawk, Peregrine Falcon, and Barred Owl.
Central Park, New York City: Don’t underestimate this urban oasis. With Pale Male, the famous Red-tailed Hawk calling it home, Central Park is also known to host other species such as Cooper’s Hawks and Peregrine Falcons.
Fire Island National Seashore: This barrier island off Long Island is a great place to see Ospreys, which are common here during the warmer months. Additionally, the island’s maritime forests can be a good place to spot other raptors like Northern Harriers.
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary: Though technically in Pennsylvania, this is a major raptor migration corridor and well worth the short drive from southern New York. It offers sightings of many species of migrating hawks, eagles, and falcons, especially during fall migration.
New York is bordered by several states, each with its own unique bird of prey watching sites. One notable bird of prey watching site in Connecticut is the Audubon Center at Bent of the River. Massachusetts birds of prey can be found at the Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary. The Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area in Vermont is a renowned spot for bird of prey watching. The Pack Monadnock Raptor Observatory in New Hampshire offers lots of birds of prey. Hawk Mountain Sanctuary in Pennsylvania is a world-famous destination for bird of preying birds.