Louisiana, with its diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity, is home to a captivating variety of hawks. These majestic birds of prey of Louisiana, known for their keen eyesight, powerful wings, and remarkable hunting skills, grace the skies of the Pelican State.
From the vibrant wetlands of the Mississippi River Delta to the expansive pine forests and coastal marshes, hawks in Louisiana command attention with their aerial acrobatics and striking presence.
Types of Hawk in Louisiana
Red-Tailed Hawks: A common sight throughout Louisiana, including areas like Kisatchie National Forest, Chicot State Park, and the Baton Rouge area.
Red-Shouldered Hawks: Often found in wooded habitats and along waterways, with notable sightings reported in places like Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge, and Lafayette.
Cooper’s Hawks: Known for its agile flight and woodland preference, the Cooper’s Hawk can be observed in locations such as Cane River Creole National Historical Park, Lake Charles, and the Natchitoches area.
Broad-Winged Hawks: During migration seasons, these hawks can be seen in large numbers soaring above locations like Toledo Bend Reservoir, Catahoula National Wildlife Refuge, and the Alexandria region.
Northern Harrier: Often found hunting over marshes and open fields, the Northern Harrier can be spotted in places such as Sabine National Wildlife Refuge, Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge, and the Calcasieu Lake area.
Sharp-Shinned Hawks: Known for its swift flight and preference for woodland habitats, the Sharp-Shinned Hawk can be observed in areas like Kisatchie National Forest, Bogue Chitto State Park, and Covington.
Swainson’s Hawks: Although less common, Swainson’s Hawks occasionally pass through Louisiana during migration, with potential sightings reported in places such as Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge, Lake Charles, and southwestern Louisiana.
White-Tailed Hawks: This hawk species is a rare visitor to Louisiana, but sightings have been reported in coastal regions such as the Cameron Parish coastline and the Grand Isle area.
Rough-Legged Hawks: During winter months, these hawks may appear in Louisiana’s northern regions, including areas near Kisatchie National Forest, Calcasieu Lake, and Vernon Parish.
Ferruginous Hawk: While not a regular resident, occasional sightings of Ferruginous Hawks have been reported in open grasslands and agricultural areas, particularly in the western part of the state.
Please note that while Harris’s Hawk is not typically found in Louisiana, it is not included in this list as it falls outside the scope of hawks commonly observed in the state.
Louisiana Hawks Photo Guide
Where to Spot Hawks in Louisiana
Kisatchie National Forest: Located in central Louisiana, Kisatchie National Forest offers diverse habitats, including pine forests and hardwood bottoms. This area attracts a variety of hawk species, including Red-tailed Hawks, Cooper’s Hawks, and Red-shouldered Hawks.
Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge: Situated in southern Louisiana, the Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge provides a mix of wetlands, bottomland hardwoods, and open marshes. It serves as an important habitat for hawks such as Broad-winged Hawks, Swainson’s Hawks, and Northern Harriers.
Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge: Located in southwestern Louisiana, Cameron Prairie NWR features marshes, prairies, and freshwater impoundments, attracting a diverse range of hawks. Look for species like Northern Harriers, Red-tailed Hawks, and the occasional Rough-legged Hawk during winter months.
Catahoula National Wildlife Refuge: Situated in central Louisiana, Catahoula NWR encompasses a mix of bottomland hardwood forests, open fields, and wetlands. It provides a habitat for hawks like Red-shouldered Hawks, Cooper’s Hawks, and occasionally Northern Harriers.
| Neighbouring State's Hawks | Hawk Watching Site |
|---|---|
| Hawks found in Texas | Smith Point Hawk Watch |
| Hawks found in Arkansas | Mount Magazine State Park |
| Hawks found in Mississippi | Strawberry Plains Audubon Center |