Mississippi, with its vast wetlands, lush forests, and expansive river system, is a haven for a myriad of wildlife, including several species of hawks.
The sight of hawks soaring high above the Magnolia State’s landscapes is nothing short of awe-inspiring, capturing the imaginations of bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Join us as we take a journey into the fascinating world of Mississippi’s hawks, each species a testament to the state’s vibrant biodiversity.
Types of Hawk in Mississippi
Red-tailed Hawks: Known for their brick-red tails, these hawks are a common sight around the open fields and roadside trees of DeSoto National Forest. Like many hawks, they fly south to Central America in one of the longest migratory routes of all raptors.
Cooper’s Hawks: Cooper’s Hawks can often be spotted navigating skillfully through the dense woods and tall trees of Natchez Trace Parkway, hunting smaller birds.
Red-shouldered Hawks: These woodland birds thrive in the wet, deciduous areas of the Delta National Forest, their distinctive, barred appearance and call marking their presence.
Broad-winged Hawks: During migration season, vast numbers of Broad-winged Hawks can be seen flying over Tishomingo State Park, a sight that leaves bird-watchers in awe.
Sharp-shinned Hawks: Known as agile fliers with dark feathers on, Sharp-shinned Hawks are year round residents in northern Mississippi and can often be spotted hunting typically prey on small birds and mammals in the mixed forests surrounding LeFleur’s Bluff State Park.
Northern Harriers: With their distinctive owlish face and long tail, Northern Harriers can be spotted gliding over open grasslands and marshes of the Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge.
Swainson’s Hawks: This long-distance migrant is known to make brief stops in Mississippi during their breeding season journey. Keep an eye out for these hawk species in the open fields of Holly Springs National Forest.
Mississippi Hawks Photo Guide
Where to Spot Hawks in Mississippi
Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge
A habitat for Red-shouldered Hawks and Cooper’s Hawks, this refuge south of Starkville offers marshes, forests, and open waters ideal for hawk watching.
Delta National Forest
Located near Rolling Fork, this is the only bottomland hardwood forest in the National Forest system and provides the perfect habitat for a variety of hawks.
St. Catherine Creek National Wildlife Refuge
Near Natchez, this wildlife refuge is home to Red-tailed Hawks, Broad-winged Hawks, and other raptor species.
Gulf Islands National Seashore
On the coast, this national seashore offers the opportunity to see birds of prey, including hawks and other small mammals, against a stunning backdrop.
Desoto National Forest
Spanning multiple counties, the diverse habitat in this forest attracts many species of hawks including the Northern Harrier and Sharp-shinned Hawk.
| Neighbouring State | Best Hawk Spotting Site |
|---|---|
| Alabama Hawks | Monte Sano State Park |
| Arkansas Hawks | Mount Magazine State Park |
| Louisiana Hawks | Grand Isle State Park |
| Tennessee Hawks | Radnor Lake State Park |
Keep in mind that spotting hawks can be seasonal and usually requires patience and an understanding of their habits. Always show respect for nature and wildlife when bird watching.