26 Florida Birds Of Prey To Watch (ID Guide & Photos)

Florida is not just a sunny paradise for humans; it’s also a haven for magnificent birds of prey. If you’ve ever wondered about these majestic creatures soaring through the Floridian skies, you’re in for a treat. In this post, we’ll explore the world of “Florida Birds of Prey” and discover the awe-inspiring species that call the Sunshine State home.

26 Types Of Birds of Prey That Live in Florida

1. Golden Eagle: The King of the Skies

The Golden Eagle, known as the king of the skies, is a regal bird with captivating features. Standing tall with golden-brown plumage, they rule the heavens with their impressive wingspan.

• Physical Characteristics:

  • These eagles have powerful talons and a sharp beak, perfect for catching prey.
  • Their wingspan can reach up to 7 feet, making them a formidable presence in the sky.
  • Despite their name, Golden Eagles have dark brown feathers with golden napes.

• Habitat and Range:

  • Golden Eagles are known for their wide distribution, found across North America, including Florida.
  • They favor open landscapes like deserts and mountain ranges.

• Diet and Hunting Habits:

  • These eagles are apex predators, feasting on rabbits, squirrels, and occasionally larger prey.
  • They use their keen eyesight to spot prey from great heights, then dive at astonishing speeds to catch it.

• Conservation Status:

  • Golden Eagles are a protected species in the United States.
  • Threats include habitat loss and collisions with man-made structures.

2. Bald Eagle: America’s Symbol of Freedom

The Bald Eagle, with its majestic appearance and patriotic significance, is an emblem of the United States. Here’s a closer look at this iconic bird.

• Iconic Appearance:

  • Recognizable by its distinctive white head and tail, the Bald Eagle is an imposing sight.
  • They have a wingspan of up to 7.5 feet and sharp talons.

• Where to Spot Bald Eagles in Florida:

  • Florida offers various locations, including lakes, rivers, and coastal areas.
  • The best time for sightings is during the winter months when they migrate south.

• Nesting Habits:

  • Bald Eagles build massive nests called “aeries” high in trees.
  • They return to the same nesting site year after year, gradually enlarging the nest.

• Conservation Efforts:

  • The Bald Eagle was once endangered but has made a remarkable recovery.
  • Legal protections and conservation efforts have played a significant role in their resurgence.

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3. Peregrine Falcon: The Speed Demon

Peregrine Falcons are known for their breathtaking speed and agile hunting techniques.

• The Fastest Bird in the World:

  • Peregrine Falcons can reach speeds of up to 240 miles per hour during a dive.
  • They have distinctive dark markings on their heads and wings.

• Urban Falcons:

  • Surprisingly, Peregrine Falcons have adapted to city life and can be found in urban areas.

• Feeding Frenzy:

  • Their diet primarily consists of birds, and they capture prey mid-air with incredible precision.

• Conservation Challenges:

  • Pesticides like DDT once threatened Peregrine Falcons.
  • Bans on harmful chemicals have contributed to their population recovery.

4. Merlin: The Miniature Falcon

Merlins might be small in size, but they possess a charm that’s larger than life.

• Merlin’s Miniature Marvels:

  • These falcons are petite, about the size of a pigeon.
  • They exhibit stunning blue-gray plumage.

• Habitat Diversity:

  • Merlins are versatile and can be found in a variety of habitats, from forests to urban areas.

• Migratory Patterns:

  • Some Merlins migrate to Florida during the winter months, adding to the state’s avian diversity.

• Conservation Outlook:

  • Merlins are generally stable in population, but habitat loss remains a concern.

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5. American Kestrel: The Colorful Raptor

The American Kestrel is a small but vibrant addition to Florida’s avian family.

• Vivid Plumage:

  • These kestrels display stunning colors, including rusty red, blue-gray, and white.
  • Males often have distinctive blue markings on their wings.

• Small But Mighty:

  • Despite their size, American Kestrels are fierce hunters, preying on insects and small mammals.

• Hunting Strategies:

  • They use hovering and a rapid stoop (dive) to catch prey.
  • Their keen eyesight aids in spotting even the tiniest of creatures.

• Conservation Status:

  • American Kestrels are considered of least concern regarding conservation.
  • However, their populations can be affected by pesticide exposure.

6. Sharp-shinned Hawk: The Woodland Ambusher

The Sharp-shinned Hawk is a master of stealth and surprise.

• Stealthy Hunters:

  • These hawks excel at ambushing prey from dense foliage.
  • They have short wings and long tails, ideal for maneuvering through forests.

• Preferred Habitats:

  • Sharp-shinned Hawks favor wooded areas, making them a common sight in Florida’s forests.

• Dietary Preferences:

  • Birds make up the majority of their diet, and they are skilled at capturing them mid-flight.

• Conservation Challenges:

  • Habitat loss and urbanization have led to declining populations in some areas.

7. Cooper’s Hawk: The Bird Feeder Bandit

Cooper’s Hawks have a reputation as skilled raiders of bird feeders.

• Bird Feeder Raids:

  • These hawks are notorious for swooping down on bird feeders to catch unsuspecting prey.

• Urban Dwellers:

  • Cooper’s Hawks have adapted well to urban environments, finding ample food sources.

• Varied Diet:

  • While birds are their primary prey, they also hunt small mammals.

• Conservation Status:

  • Cooper’s Hawks are considered stable in population.
  • However, some individuals may face threats from collisions with windows and vehicles.

With these remarkable birds as just the first part of our journey, we’ll continue our exploration of Florida’s Birds of Prey in the following sections.

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8. Short-tailed Hawk: The Color-Changing Raptor

The Short-tailed Hawk is known for its incredible color-changing plumage.

• Chameleon of the Skies:

  • These hawks exhibit a unique color morphing ability, changing from light to dark as they age.

• Habitats and Territories:

  • They are commonly found in wooded areas and often near water bodies in Florida.

• Prey of Choice:

  • Short-tailed Hawks primarily prey on birds and tree-dwelling mammals.

• Conservation Outlook:

  • Their population remains stable, but habitat preservation is essential for their survival.

9. Red-tailed Hawk: The Scream of the Wild

The Red-tailed Hawk is known for its distinctive call that echoes through the wild.

• Vocal Displays:

  • Their shrill call is often used in movies and television to represent any raptor.

• Habitat Adaptability:

  • Red-tailed Hawks can be found in various environments, from deserts to forests.

• Varied Diet:

  • Their diet includes mammals, reptiles, and birds, making them versatile hunters.

• Conservation Status:

  • Red-tailed Hawks are abundant and not of conservation concern.

10. Red-shouldered Hawk: The Wetland Sentinel

Red-shouldered Hawks are often associated with Florida’s lush wetlands.

• Wetland Warriors:

  • These hawks are frequently seen perched near swamps and marshes.

• Marshland Abode:

  • They build their nests in trees near water, allowing them easy access to aquatic prey.

• Dietary Preferences:

  • Amphibians and small mammals are staples in their diet.

• Conservation Challenges:

  • Habitat loss and pollution in wetlands can affect their prey populations.

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11. Broad-winged Hawk: The Migratory Marvel

Broad-winged Hawks are known for their spectacular mass migrations.

• Massive Migrations:

  • These hawks form large groups and undertake impressive migrations to Central and South America.

• Wooded Homes:

  • They prefer dense forests and are often found in Florida’s wooded regions.

• Dietary Diversity:

  • Their diet includes insects, small mammals, and amphibians.

• Conservation Concerns:

  • Forest fragmentation and habitat loss are challenges for this species.

Now that we’ve explored the fascinating world of these hawks, let’s continue our journey through the skies of Florida, meeting even more captivating birds of prey.

12. Turkey Vulture: Nature’s Clean-up Crew

Turkey Vultures play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance.

• Efficient Scavengers:

  • They feed on carrion, helping to prevent the spread of disease.

• Wide Distribution:

  • Turkey Vultures can be found throughout the Americas, including Florida.

• Dietary Adaptations:

  • Their keen sense of smell helps them locate food hidden beneath the canopy.

• Conservation Status:

  • Turkey Vultures are abundant and not considered threatened.

13. Black Vulture: The Bold Opportunist

Black Vultures are known for their fearless and opportunistic behavior.

• Bold and Fearless:

  • These vultures are unafraid to approach larger predators and steal their kills.

• Group Living:

  • They often gather in large flocks, especially during migration.

• Scavenging Specialists:

  • Black Vultures are experts at scavenging, with strong beaks capable of tearing through tough hides.

• Conservation Considerations:

  • Their adaptable nature has helped them thrive, but human activities can still pose threats.

14. Swallow-Tailed Kite: The Aerial Acrobat

Swallow-Tailed Kites are known for their breathtaking aerial displays.

• Aerial Prowess:

  • They are skilled at catching insects mid-flight, even performing somersaults in the air.

• Preferred Habitat:

  • Swallow-Tailed Kites prefer wetlands and woodlands.

• Insectivorous Lifestyle:

  • Their diet primarily consists of insects, making them crucial for pest control.

• Conservation Concerns:

  • Habitat loss and pesticide use can impact their insect prey.

15. Snail Kite: The Specialist Feeder

Snail Kites have a specialized diet that sets them apart.

• Snail-Eating Expert:

  • They are known for their proficiency in hunting apple snails.

• Wetland Dweller:

  • Snail Kites inhabit freshwater wetlands and marshes.

• Conservation Challenges:

  • Changes in water levels and invasive species threaten their snail prey.

16. White-tailed Kite: The Hovering Hunter

White-tailed Kites have a distinctive hunting style that involves hovering in the air.

• Hovering Mastery:

  • They can remain suspended in the air for extended periods while hunting.

• Grassland Enthusiasts:

  • These kites favor open grasslands and fields.

• Dietary Preferences:

  • Small mammals and birds are their primary food sources.

• Conservation Outlook:

  • White-tailed Kites are generally stable in population.

17. Mississippi Kite: The Southern Nomad

Mississippi Kites are known for their nomadic lifestyle.

• Nomadic Behavior:

  • They travel extensively across the southeastern United States.

• Woodland and Urban Habitats:

  • These kites are adaptable and can be found in woodlands and cities.

• Insect-Eating Enthusiasts:

  • Their diet mainly consists of insects, particularly cicadas.

• Conservation Concerns:

  • Habitat loss can affect their insect prey.

18. The Barred Owl: Nature’s Hooters

The Barred Owl is known for its distinctive hooting calls in the night.

• Distinctive Hoots:

  • Their “Who cooks for you?” hooting call is a common sound in wooded areas.

• Nocturnal Natives:

  • Barred Owls are primarily nocturnal, making them elusive daytime sightings.

• Varied Diet:

  • They prey on small mammals, birds, and amphibians.

• Conservation Status:

  • Barred Owls are not of immediate conservation concern.

19. The Great Horned Owl: The Silent Hunter

Great Horned Owls are renowned for their stealthy hunting abilities.

• Silent Predators:

  • They fly silently due to specialized feathers, making them deadly hunters.

• Broad Habitat Range:

  • These owls adapt to various habitats, from forests to urban areas.

• Top of the Food Chain:

  • They are apex predators, capable of taking down prey larger than themselves.

• Conservation Outlook:

  • Great Horned Owls are generally stable in population.

20. Osprey: The Fishing Specialist

Ospreys are specialized fish hunters, often seen near water bodies.

• Fish-Eating Experts:

  • Their diet primarily consists of fish, and they have unique adaptations for fishing.

• Coastal Dwellers:

  • Ospreys can be found along coastlines and near freshwater lakes.

• Nesting Platforms:

  • They build nests on elevated structures, including artificial platforms.

• Conservation Success:

  • Osprey populations have rebounded, thanks to conservation efforts.

21. Limpkin: The Snail Whisperer

Limpkins are known for their distinctive calls and diet of mollusks.

• Mollusk Munchers:

  • They have long bills for extracting snails and other mollusks from shells.

• Marshland Inhabitants:

  • Limpkins are commonly found in Florida’s wetlands and marshes.

• Unique Calls:

  • Their wailing cries are a characteristic sound of Florida’s wetland areas.

• Conservation Status:

  • Limpkins are not of immediate conservation concern.

22. Gyrfalcon: The Arctic Visitor

Gyrfalcons are occasional visitors to Florida from their Arctic homes.

• Arctic Nomads:

  • These falcons migrate to Florida during the winter months.

• Appearance and Size:

  • Gyrfalcons are the largest of the falcon species, with striking white plumage.

• Predatory Prowess:

  • They are formidable hunters, preying on birds and mammals.

• Conservation Outlook:

  • Gyrfalcons have a stable population.

23. Goshawk: The Elusive Hunter

Goshawks are known for their elusive nature and woodland hunting skills.

• Secretive Raptors:

  • Goshawks are elusive and often concealed in dense forests.

• Woodland Experts:

  • They prefer wooded habitats and are skilled at hunting in tree-covered environments.

• Varied Diet:

  • Their diet includes birds, mammals, and even other raptors.

• Conservation Concerns:

  • Habitat loss and persecution can affect Goshawk populations.

24. Common Buzzard: The European Guest

 

Common Buzzards occasionally visit Florida from Europe, making them intriguing guests.

• European Visitors:

  • These buzzards migrate to Florida during the winter months.

• Adaptation to Varied Habitats:

  • Common Buzzards can thrive in a range of environments, from forests to open fields.

• Dietary Preferences:

  • Their diet includes small mammals, birds, and carrion.

• Conservation Status:

  • They are abundant in their European range.

25. Rough-legged Hawk: The Arctic Nomad

Rough-legged Hawks migrate to Florida during the winter months, escaping the Arctic cold.

• Arctic Nesters:

  • They breed in the Arctic tundra and migrate south during winter.

• Wintering in Florida:

  • Florida’s open fields and wetlands provide a suitable winter habitat.

• Dietary Preferences:

  • Rough-legged Hawks primarily hunt rodents and small mammals.

• Conservation Outlook:

  • They have a stable population in North America.

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26. Northern Harrier: The Low-Flying Hunter

Northern Harriers are known for their low-level hunting flights over marshlands.

• Low-Level Hunters:

  • They fly close to the ground, using their keen vision to spot prey.

• Marshland Masters:

  • Northern Harriers are frequently found in wetlands and open fields.

• Dietary Habits:

  • Their diet includes small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

• Conservation Challenges:

  • Habitat loss in wetlands can impact their hunting grounds.

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Facts And Statistics:

Must-Have Items For Bird Watching Florida Birds Of Prey

Bird watching is an exciting hobby, but to truly enjoy observing Florida’s Birds of Prey, you’ll need the right gear. Here’s a checklist of must-have items:

• Binoculars: Invest in a good pair of binoculars for clear and detailed bird watching.
• Field Guide: A bird identification book specific to Florida can be immensely helpful.
• Notebook and Pen: Keep a record of your sightings, including date, location, and species.
• Camera: Capture the beauty of these raptors and share your experiences.
• Insect Repellent: Especially important in Florida’s swamps and wetlands.
• Comfortable Footwear: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so choose sturdy, comfortable shoes.
• Water and Snacks: Stay hydrated and energized during your bird watching adventures.
• Hat and Sunscreen: Protect yourself from Florida’s intense sunshine. You can also read Do Squirrels Eat Birds and Their Eggs? The Mind-Blowing Truth.

Florida Birds Of Prey Hotspots For Bird Watching

Florida offers an array of excellent bird-watching spots, each with its unique charm and variety of avian residents. Here are some hotspots you shouldn’t miss:

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

• Located in Naples, this sanctuary is a haven for bird watchers.
• You can spot several species of hawks, owls, and kites here.
• Don’t forget to explore the boardwalks for close-up encounters.

Florida Everglades National Park

• A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Everglades is home to numerous birds of prey.
• Keep an eye out for Ospreys and Snail Kites as you explore the wetlands.

Fort DeSoto County Park

• Situated near St. Petersburg, this park is renowned for its bird diversity.
• Watch for Red-shouldered Hawks and Bald Eagles.

Honeymoon Island State Recreation Area

• Near Clearwater, this island is a bird-watching gem.
• Look out for Peregrine Falcons and Cooper’s Hawks.

Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge

• Located in Boynton Beach, this refuge is perfect for bird enthusiasts.
• Explore the trails and you might spot Swallow-Tailed Kites and Short-tailed Hawks.

Florida Birds Of Prey Bird Watching Tips

Bird watching in Florida can be an exciting and educational experience, but it’s essential to be aware of certain factors, especially when dealing with predatory birds.

Dealing With Aggressive Birds

• Some raptors may perceive humans as threats. Maintain a respectful distance to avoid aggressive behavior.
• Use binoculars and zoom lenses for close-up observations without disturbing the birds.
• Avoid approaching nests, especially during breeding season.

Why Predatory Birds Attack People

• Predatory birds usually attack when they feel their nests or young are threatened.
• Keep an eye on their behavior; if they become agitated, it’s best to move away.

Law About Nest Removal

• Removing a bird’s nest, especially one with eggs or chicks, is generally illegal without the proper permits.
• Respect local and federal laws protecting wildlife.

Things Bird Watching Hosts Do To Protect The People From Bird Attacks

• Many bird-watching areas have guides or hosts who are experienced in handling raptors.
• They provide valuable insights and ensure visitor safety by enforcing guidelines.

With these tips and hotspot recommendations, you’re well-prepared for an exciting bird-watching adventure in Florida!

FAQs About Birds Of Prey in Florida

Q-1: What type of hawks are in Florida?

Florida is home to a diverse range of hawks, including the Red-tailed Hawk, Red-shouldered Hawk, Swallow-Tailed Kite, Short-tailed Hawk, and Cooper’s Hawk, among others. Each species has its unique characteristics and habitats.

Q-2: What is the biggest hawk in Florida?

The biggest hawk in Florida is the Red-tailed Hawk. It is known for its impressive size, with a wingspan that can reach up to four feet. These majestic birds are often seen soaring in open areas.

Q-3: Can a hawk pick up a small dog?

While it’s rare, some larger hawk species, like the Red-tailed Hawk, have been known to target small animals as prey. However, the likelihood of a hawk picking up a small dog is very low. Hawks typically hunt smaller mammals and birds.

Q-4: Is it illegal to shoot a hawk in Florida?

Yes, it is illegal to harm or kill hawks or any other birds of prey in Florida. These birds are protected by state and federal laws, and harming them can result in serious legal consequences.

Q-5: How do I protect my small dogs from birds of prey?

To protect small dogs from potential bird of prey attacks, consider the following precautions:

• Supervise your dog when it’s outside, especially in open areas.
• Use a leash or long tether to keep your dog within your sight.
• Create a secure outdoor enclosure or play area for your dog.
• Install deterrents like scarecrows, reflective objects, or noise-making devices to deter birds of prey from approaching.