Hawks, Eagles, and Falcons in Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s landscapes influence the diversity of its hawks, eagles, and falcons. Cooper’s hawks, known for their flying agility, are commonly found in the woods or on the edge of fields.

The red-tailed hawk’s adaptability makes it thrive in the fields and forests, showcasing the richness of its avian wildlife.

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

Eagles

There are two types of eagles native to Wisconsin.

Bald Eagle
Golden Eagle

The bald eagle population was once imperiled, but thanks to conservation efforts, as of 2023, there are 1,600 nesting pairs in the state. Late March or early April is the egg-laying season.

Hawks

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

The sharp-shinned hawk is the smallest in the state. It can be found all over Wisconsin. They migrate north to Alaska and Canada to breed each year and south to Central America in the winter.

The small broad-winged hawks are more common in summer, while the large red-tailed hawks are more common in winter. The latter hawk makes a screaming, hoarse “kee-eeeee-arr” sound while soaring. During courtship, they also make a shrill “chwirk”, sometimes emitting several such calls in a row.

Falcons

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

Ospreys

Osprey

Harriers

Northern Harrier

The best bald eagle-viewing spot in the Badger State is on the Wisconsin River in Sauk-Prairie, especially below the Prairie du Sac Hydroelectric Dam during winter. The Fox Valley is a wintering hotspot for bald eagles, with January to early February being the best times for watching. Active nests can be found in inland nesting areas and along major rivers like the Lower Wisconsin, Wolf, Chippewa, and Mississippi.