Birds of prey in North Carolina are a diverse group of raptors that inhabit the region. These powerful and often majestic birds play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance. They exhibit a range of sizes, from the large and impressive Bald Eagle to smaller species like the American Kestrel. These birds are top predators in the food chain and are vital indicators of the health of the ecosystem.
Types of Birds of Prey in North Carolina
| Bird's Name | Size | Frequency in North Carolina | Best Place to Spot in North Carolina | Best Viewing Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bald Eagle | Large | Common | Coastal areas, Jordan Lake, Pee Dee National Wildlife Refuge | All year |
| Osprey | Large | Common | Coastal areas, large rivers and lakes | Spring - Summer |
| Red-tailed Hawk | Large | Very Common | Throughout North Carolina | Spring - Fall |
| Turkey Vulture | Large | Very Common | Throughout North Carolina | Spring - Fall |
| Black Vulture | Large | Common | Throughout North Carolina | Spring - Fall |
| Peregrine Falcon | Medium | Rare | Blue Ridge Parkway, Appalachian Mountains | 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 | Appalachian Mountains | Spring - Fall |
| Great Horned Owl | Medium | Very Common | Throughout North Carolina | All year |
| Barred Owl | Medium | Common | Forested areas | All year |
| Snowy Owl | Medium | Very Rare | Northern Outer Banks during irruption years | Winter |
| American Barn Owl | Medium | Very Rare | Farmland areas | Spring - Fall |
| Short-eared Owl | Medium | Rare | Eastern North Carolina in winter | Winter |
| Sharp-shinned Hawk | Small | Common | Forested areas | Spring - Fall |
| Northern Saw-whet Owl | Small | Rare | Mountainous regions | All year |
| Eastern Screech-Owl | Small | Very Common | Throughout North Carolina | All year |
| American Kestrel | Small | Common | Open countryside, especially western North Carolina | Spring - Fall |
North Carolina's Birds of Prey Photo Guides
Where to Spot North Carolina’s Birds of Prey
Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge: Located on the Outer Banks, this refuge offers ample opportunities to spot a variety of birds of prey, including Bald Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks, and Barred Owls especially during breeding season. The wetland habitat and vast wilderness areas make it an ideal spot for bird watching.
Pisgah National Forest: This expansive forest in the Appalachian Mountains is home to a range of raptors such as Cooper’s Hawks, Peregrine Falcons, and Northern Goshawks. Its diverse elevation range and forest types provide numerous habitats for these birds.
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area: Located near Chapel Hill, this large reservoir is an excellent place to see Bald Eagles and Ospreys, particularly near the water where they fish. Red-tailed Hawks can also often be spotted in the area.
Hanging Rock State Park: Nestled in the Sauratown Mountains, this state park provides habitats for a variety of birds of prey including Broad-winged Hawks, Red-shouldered Hawks, and Barred Owls. The park’s rocky peaks and woodland areas offer spectacular birdwatching opportunities.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Straddling North Carolina and Tennessee, the park offers birdwatchers an opportunity to see a diverse range of raptors, including Peregrine Falcons, Broad-winged Hawks, and Northern Saw-whet Owls. The park’s varied elevations and habitats attract a wide range of species.
North Carolina’s extensive coastlines and forests are a paradise for raptors. Experience the beauty of South Carolina’s Birds of Prey, reflecting the Palmetto State’s rich ecosystems. Or, explore the charm of Tennessee’s Feathered Predators. To the north, Virginia’s Sky Hunters evoke the Old Dominion’s natural allure. Explore these species further with our detailed US Birds of Prey Resource.