Hawks, Eagles, and Falcons in Maine

Maine’s hawks, eagles, and falcons, including the iconic bald eagle, the adaptable red-tailed hawk, and the swift peregrine falcon, are key indicators of the state’s ecological balance. These birds of prey contribute to controlling prey populations and underscore the significance of Maine’s varied landscapes, from coastal cliffs to inland forests.

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

Eagles

There are only two types of eagles native to Maine.

Bald Eagle
Golden Eagle
Steller’s Sea-eagle (Accidental)

The Steller’s sea eagle, a native of Russia, is among the rarest raptors in the world and larger than the bald eagle. It first appeared in the Maine mid-coast just before the onset of 2022, attracting hordes of birdwatchers from the US and Canada. After spending three months, it flew away to Newfoundland. It re-appeared at the same location in February 2023. The place is a favorite with the native eagles, too, due to the abundance of food.

Hawks

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

Not all hawks in Maine are big. There are some small hawks, like the Cooper’s and sharp-shinned hawks, of which the latter is the smallest in the state.

Falcons

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

Ospreys

Osprey

Harriers

Northern Harrier
Western Marsh-harrier (Accidental)

Maine will not disappoint you if you are keen to do some hawk-watching. It has the Bradbury Mountain State Park, where you can see the hawks, as well bald eagles, American kestrels, and merlins. Other places to watch the state’s hawks, eagles, and falcons are the Cadillac Mt. Acadia National Park, Clarry Hill, Cooper Hawkwatch, Hacker’s Hill, Harpswell Peninsula/Casco Bay, and Monhegan – Lobster Point.