Hawks, Eagles, and Falcons in Connecticut

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

Eagles

There are only two types of eagles calling the state home.

• Bald Eagle
• Golden Eagle

Hawks

• Broad-winged hawk
• Cooper’s Hawk
• Northern Goshawk
• Red-tailed Hawk
• Red-shouldered Hawk
• Rough-legged Hawk
• Sharp-shinned Hawk

The commonest hawk in the state is the large red-tailed hawk. The small broad-winged hawks are migratory and visit Connecticut during the spring-summer breeding season. Sharp-shinned hawks are also migratory and are the smallest in the state. The largest hawk in Connecticut is the rough-legged species.

Falcons

The smallest falcon in the state is the American kestrel, almost the same size as the American robin. The peregrine falcon, the fastest animal on Earth, is also commonly found in Connecticut. The aplomado falcon is an endangered species, but conservation efforts are in full swing.

• Peregrine Falcon
• American Kestrel
• Merlin
• Aplomado Falcon (Accidental)
• Prairie Falcon (Accidental)
• Gyrfalcon (Accidental)

Ospreys

• Osprey

Harriers

• Northern Harrier

If you want to watch the hawks of Connecticut, you can head to the state’s woodlands that host the smaller species like the Cooper’s and sharp-shinned hawks. The larger species can be spotted in marshes, open grasslands, and high ridges. Shepaug Dam, in Southbury, is the best place to view the bald eagle. It can also be spotted in the Connecticut River Museum in Essex, Gillette Castle, and Eagle Landing State Parks.