Hawks, Eagles, and Falcons in Florida

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

Eagles

• Bald Eagle
• Golden Eagle
• White-tailed Eagle (Accidental)
• Steller’s Sea Eagle (Accidental)

The bald eagle – the national bird of the US and the most common eagle in Florida –  is easily recognizable by its large brown body, white feathered head, and bright yellow beak.

Hawks

The largest hawk species in Florida is the red-tailed hawk with a prominent short and red tail. It has a brown back with a pale underneath and frequents North Florida. On the other hand, sharp-shinned hawks are the smallest in Florida. Cooper’s hawks are medium-sized raptors.

• Red-tailed hawk
• Red-shouldered Hawk
• Sharp-shinned Hawk
• Short-tailed Hawk
• Cooper’s Hawk
• Broad-winged Hawk
• Swainson’s hawk (Accidental)

The red-shouldered hawk frequents Central Florida.

Falcons

• American Kestrel
• Merlin
• Peregrine Falcon
• Crested Caracara

American kestrels and merlins are among the smaller falcons living in the state, while the peregrine falcons are much larger species. The crested caracara is found in central Florida near Orlando.

Ospreys

• Osprey

Harriers

• Northern Harrier

A popular eagle-watching place is Creek Preserve State Park, where bald eagles return yearly and nest close to Jacksonville. Besides, the state has the densest population of breeding eagles. Florida’s Gulf Coast is the best place for hawk-watching in the state. Likewise, the Guana River Wildlife Management Area and State Park is the best place to see peregrine falcons.