Hawks, Eagles, and Falcons in Maryland

Maryland has much to boast about its hawks, eagles, and falcons. The bald eagle’s resurgence, the red-tailed hawk’s adaptability, and the peregrine falcon’s recovery from the clutches of endangerment reflect conservation efforts and indicate ecosystem health across its coastal, woodland, and urban environments.

List of Different Types of Hawks, Eagles, and Falcons in Maryland

Eagles

There are only two types of eagles native to Maryland.

Bald Eagle
Golden Eagle

The bald eagle, once a federally endangered species, was removed from Maryland’s list of endangered and threatened species in 2010 after the pesticide DDT ban. Since then, its population drastically increased, and as of 2022, more than 1400 pairs have been recorded in the state.

Hawks

Sharp-shinned Hawk
Cooper’s Hawk
Red-shouldered Hawk
Broad-winged Hawk
Red-tailed Hawk
Rough-legged Hawk
Zone-tailed Hawk (Accidental)
American Goshawk (Accidental)
Swainson’s Hawk (Accidental)

The red-tailed hawk is the most common, and Marylanders are familiar with it. It is often seen on long drives in the countryside, perched on fence posts, or soaring in the sky. The sharp-shinned hawk, the smallest in the state, frequents the forested areas of the state.

Falcons

American Kestrel
Merlin
Peregrine Falcon
Crested Caracara (Accidental)
Gyrfalcon (Accidental)

Ospreys

Osprey

Harriers

Northern Harrier

The Chesapeake Bay region is the best place for bald eagle sightings as it has the highest concentration of these birds in the lower 48 states. The Conowingo Dam on the Susquehanna River in Darlington is also an excellent spot for watching them as dozens compete with each other for fish near the dam’s base. The nationally acclaimed hawkwatch site, Fort Smallwood Park, offers splendid views of hawks, ospreys, harriers, and falcons.