Hawks, Eagles, and Falcons in Illinois

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

Eagles

There are only two types of eagles native to the state.

• Bald Eagle
• Golden Eagle

Hawks

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

In northern Illinois, you will likely see the red-tailed, Cooper’s, broad-winged, rough-legged, and sharp-shinned hawks. Central Illinois also has all the aforementioned hawks except the rough-legged species. It has the red-shouldered hawk instead. Southern Illinois, however, has all the types mentioned above. The red-tailed hawk is the most common in the state, while the sharp-shinned hawk is the smallest.

Falcons

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

The peregrine falcon was extirpated from the state in the mid-20th century due to the rampant use of pesticides, but since then, they have been reintroduced, and their numbers have recovered. Now they are a regular in Illinois.

Ospreys

• Osprey

Harriers

• Northern Harrier

The Four Rivers Environmental Education Center is a favorite eagle-watching spot for bird enthusiasts of the state. The area is a happening bald eagle hangout in the colder months. In January, migrating bald eagles can be seen along the Fox River at the Carpenter Dam, where birdwatchers flock during that time of the year.