types of hawks in nj

3 min read 06-12-2024

Meta Description: Discover the diverse world of hawks soaring New Jersey skies! This comprehensive guide explores the common and uncommon hawk species found in the Garden State, complete with identification tips, habitat preferences, and stunning photos. Learn how to distinguish red-tailed hawks from Cooper's hawks and much more. Perfect for bird enthusiasts of all levels!

Introduction: Hawks of the Garden State

New Jersey, with its diverse habitats ranging from coastal marshes to forested highlands, provides a welcoming home to a variety of majestic hawk species. From the ubiquitous red-tailed hawk to the more elusive Northern goshawk, birdwatchers in NJ have plenty of opportunities to spot these magnificent birds of prey. This guide will explore some of the most common hawks you might encounter while exploring the natural beauty of the Garden State. Understanding the different types of hawks in NJ is key to appreciating their unique characteristics and ecological roles.

Common Hawks of New Jersey

1. Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis)

Identification: Easily recognized by its broad wings, short rounded tail, and — as its name suggests — a reddish-brown tail. Adults often show a dark brown band across the belly. Juveniles have a more streaked appearance.
Habitat: Red-tailed hawks are incredibly adaptable and can be found in a wide range of habitats across NJ, including forests, fields, and even urban areas.
Behavior: Often seen soaring on thermals, scanning the ground below for prey like rodents, rabbits, and snakes.

2. Red-shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus)

Identification: Distinguished by its reddish-brown shoulders, a striped breast, and a relatively short, broad tail. It often perches in lower branches than red-tailed hawks.
Habitat: Prefers wooded areas with nearby open spaces for hunting. Common in mature deciduous forests.
Behavior: Typically hunts by perching and ambushing prey, often smaller animals like snakes, frogs, and insects.

3. Cooper's Hawk (Accipiter cooperii)

Identification: A medium-sized hawk with a long tail and short, rounded wings, giving it a more streamlined appearance than Buteo hawks. It has a dark gray back and reddish-brown barring on its underparts.
Habitat: Prefers wooded areas, particularly those with dense undergrowth.
Behavior: An agile hunter that pursues prey through the forest, capturing birds and small mammals. It’s known for its fast and acrobatic flights.

4. Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus)

Identification: The smallest accipiter in North America, with a noticeably long tail and short wings. They have dark gray upperparts and a reddish-brown breast with fine white streaks.
Habitat: Found in various forested habitats across NJ, including woodlands near water bodies.
Behavior: Primarily a bird hunter, often pursuing prey through dense vegetation. They are incredibly fast and agile in their pursuit.

Less Common but Notable NJ Hawks

5. Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis)

Identification: A large, powerful hawk with a long tail and broad wings. It has a dark gray back and a barred breast. It is significantly larger than Cooper's and Sharp-shinned hawks.
Habitat: Requires extensive, mature forests, making them less common in densely populated areas of NJ.
Behavior: A fierce hunter specializing in larger prey, including squirrels, rabbits, and even other birds.

6. Broad-winged Hawk (Buteo platypterus)

Identification: Recognizable by its broad, slightly angled wings, and a relatively short tail. The underparts show distinctive dark banding.
Habitat: Often found in wooded areas, but also frequents open spaces during migration.
Behavior: More commonly observed during migration, as it is not a year-round resident in all parts of NJ.

Identifying Hawks: Key Tips

Size and Shape: Pay close attention to the hawk's overall size, wing shape, and tail length.
Coloration and Markings: Note the color of the back, breast, and tail, as well as any distinctive markings or barring patterns.
Flight Pattern: Observe how the hawk flies. Buteos often soar on thermals, while Accipiters tend to fly with rapid wingbeats.
Habitat: Consider the environment where you observe the hawk. Certain species prefer specific habitats.
Use a Field Guide: A good field guide with detailed descriptions and illustrations is invaluable for hawk identification.

Conclusion: Enjoy the Hawk Show!

New Jersey offers an exciting opportunity to witness the remarkable diversity of hawks. By learning to identify the different species and understanding their behaviors and habitats, you can enhance your birding experiences. Remember to respect their natural environment and observe them from a safe distance, allowing them to continue their vital role in the ecosystem. So, grab your binoculars, head out into the New Jersey wilderness, and enjoy the magnificent aerial displays of these impressive birds of prey!