Hawks, Eagles, and Falcons in Mississippi

Mississippi’s wealth of hawks, eagles, and falcons, like the bald eagle, red-tailed hawk, and American kestrel, enrich the state’s biodiversity. These birds of prey signify environmental health and contribute to Mississippi’s ecological balance.

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

Eagles

There are only two types of eagles native to Mississippi.

Bald Eagle
Golden Eagle

Bald Eagles can be seen year-round in Mississippi, but their numbers increase during winter from October to January. Following successful conservation efforts, over 100 nesting pairs are living in the state along the Mississippi River.

Hawks

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

Cooper’s hawks are mostly found in Mississippi on the edge of fields or woods. They are known for their flying agility. Sharp-shinned hawks are found throughout the state. They prefer breeding in forest and woodland habitats, generally choosing coniferous forests, where they perch on branches looking for food.

Falcons

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

Like the merlin, peregrine falcons travel through most of the state during migration season. Still, they may spend several months in Mississippi’s far southern part during the winter. They are the fastest animals in the world.

Ospreys

Osprey

Harriers

Northern Harrier

The best places to view bald eagles in the state are forests near large water bodies, as they provide good fishing opportunities, and tall trees, which serve as nesting sites.