9 Types of Hawks in Iowa (ID Guide With Photos)
Hawks in Iowa are not all the same. In fact, there are nine different species of these majestic raptors living in the state. Each one has its own features, habits, and preferences. In this guide, I will introduce you to these amazing birds and show you where and how to find them. You will also see some beautiful photos of hawks in their natural settings. Let’s dive into the world of hawks in Iowa
Here are the main points:
- Iowa is home to nine distinct species of hawks
- Hawks in Iowa exhibit a wide range of physical features and hunting techniques
- Each hawk species has its preferred habitat and behavior patterns
- Photos showcase the beauty and diversity of Iowa’s hawk population
- Exploring the different hawk species expands our understanding of Iowa’s rich wildlife
1. Red-tailed Hawk
The Red-tailed Hawk is a captivating raptor that holds a special place in the heart of Iowa. With its striking appearance and majestic flight, it is no wonder that this hawk has become one of the most iconic species in the state.
Physical Features
The Red-tailed Hawk boasts a broad wingspan, measuring around 45-52 inches, and a length of approximately 18-26 inches. It displays a distinctive reddish-brown tail, which is where it gets its name. Its plumage varies between individuals, ranging from light to dark brown, with a lighter underbelly adorned with contrasting dark markings.
Habitat and Behavior
This hawk species can be found throughout Iowa, inhabiting a diverse range of environments, including grasslands, woodlands, and open fields. It is also commonly seen perching on trees, utility poles, and fence posts, scanning the surroundings for prey.
The Red-tailed Hawk primarily preys on small mammals, such as mice, voles, rabbits, and occasionally snakes and birds. It employs a combination of soaring and active hunting techniques, using its keen eyesight to spot potential targets from above or while in flight.
The Red-tailed Hawk is a remarkable predator, showcasing incredible adaptability and hunting prowess. Its distinctive call and commanding presence make it a true symbol of the Iowa skies.”- Iowa Bird Enthusiast
The Iowa Population
The Red-tailed Hawk population in Iowa remains healthy, a testament to the state’s suitable habitat and conservation efforts. Although this species can be observed throughout the year, their numbers are more prevalent during the breeding season and migration periods.
Awareness and appreciation of the Red-tailed Hawk in Iowa are fostered through various initiatives, including educational programs, bird-watching events, and citizen science projects. These efforts contribute to the understanding and protection of this magnificent raptor.
| Red-tailed Hawk in Iowa | Description |
|---|---|
| Physical Features | Variable plumage, reddish-brown tail |
| Habitat | Grasslands, woodlands, open fields |
| Diet | Small mammals, snakes, birds |
| Conservation Status | Population stable; conservation efforts in place |
2. Northern Harrier
The Northern Harrier is a captivating hawk species that can be found in the beautiful state of Iowa. This section will delve into the unique hunting style, preferred habitats, and other intriguing aspects of the Northern Harrier’s behavior and appearance. To provide a visual understanding of this majestic bird, we have included photos of the Northern Harrier in Iowa.
Unique Hunting Style
The Northern Harrier is known for its distinctive hunting technique, which sets it apart from other hawks. Unlike most raptors that rely primarily on soaring and diving to catch their prey, the Northern Harrier, also known as the marsh hawk, engages in low-level flight and hovers over open areas such as grasslands, wetlands, and fields. This behavior allows it to use its incredible hearing and keen eyesight to locate small mammals, birds, and even reptiles.
Preferred Habitats
In Iowa, the Northern Harrier can be spotted in a variety of habitats, including marshes, meadows, prairies, and agricultural fields. These open landscapes provide the perfect environment for the hawk’s hunting style and prey availability. The abundance of small mammals, such as voles and mice, makes these habitats ideal feeding grounds for the Northern Harrier.
Other Interesting Facts
- The Northern Harrier is one of the few raptors where the females are larger than the males.
- They have a distinctive white patch on their rump, which is visible during flight.
- These hawks are known for their courtship displays, which involve impressive aerial acrobatics.
- Northern Harriers breed in Iowa during the summer months and migrate to southern areas during the winter.
3. Sharp-shinned Hawk
The Sharp-shinned Hawks in Iowa is a small-sized hawk known for its agile flight and swift hunting skills. With its short wings and long tail, it can maneuver through dense forests effortlessly, preying on small birds and mammals. This hawk species is more commonly observed during its migration through Iowa in spring and fall.
Related Hawks Found in New York
4. Cooper’s Hawk
Similar in appearance to the Sharp-shinned Hawk, the Cooper’s Hawk is slightly larger and has a more rounded tail. It is known for its remarkable speed and skillful aerial pursuits. Cooper’s Hawks primarily feed on birds, often ambushing their prey with sudden bursts of speed. These hawks are commonly seen in woodland areas across Iowa throughout the year.
Also Read Hawks In Wisconsin
5. Northern Goshawk
The Northern Goshawk is the largest of the three species and possesses impressive strength and agility. With its broad wings and long tail, it excels at hunting larger prey, including rabbits and squirrels. Native to forested regions, the Northern Goshawk is a rare sight in Iowa, mainly found during the winter months as it ventures south in search of food.
Below is a table that summarizes the distinctive features of each hawk species:
| Hawk Species | Size | Wingspan | Tail Shape | Main Hunting Prey | Preferred Habitat | Presence in Iowa |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sharp-shinned Hawk | Small | Approximately 30-40 cm | Squared | Small birds and mammals | Wooded areas | Migratory (spring and fall) |
| Cooper’s Hawk | Medium | Approximately 40-50 cm | Rounded | Medium-sized birds | Wooded areas | Resident |
| Northern Goshawk | Large | Approximately 50-60 cm | Rounded | Rabbits, squirrels, and larger birds | Forested regions | Winter visitor |
As shown in the table, each species has distinct characteristics and adaptations that allow them to thrive in their respective habitats. Observing and understanding the differences between these hawk species can enhance our appreciation for the remarkable diversity of raptors found in Iowa’s skies.
Must Visit Hawks in Illinois
Red-Shouldered Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, Swainson’s Hawk, and Rough-legged Hawk
In the vast and diverse landscape of Iowa, four unique hawk species add to the richness of the state’s raptor population. These species include the Red-Shouldered Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, Swainson’s Hawk, and Rough-legged Hawk.
The Red-Shouldered Hawk is known for its striking reddish-brown shoulders and chest, making it easily recognizable. It prefers to inhabit wooded areas and is often spotted near bodies of water, where it hunts for small mammals and amphibians.
The Broad-winged Hawk is a migratory species that passes through Iowa during its annual journey. It is known for its distinct call, a high-pitched whistle, and its preference for wooded habitats. This skilled hunter primarily feeds on small mammals and reptiles.
With its graceful flight and distinct, white underwings, the Swainson’s Hawk is a beautiful sight in the Iowa sky. While it migrates long distances to South America during the winter, it nests in Iowa’s open grasslands. Its diet consists mostly of small mammals and birds.
Last but not least, the Rough-legged Hawk is a winter visitor to Iowa, often arriving from the Arctic regions. It has feathered legs that allow it to adapt to colder climates, and it can be spotted along open fields and marshes, searching for small mammals.
These four hawk species – the Red-Shouldered Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, Swainson’s Hawk, and Rough-legged Hawk – each bring their own unique beauty and behavior to Iowa’s raptor population. Observing them in their natural habitats is a true delight for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the most common hawk in Iowa?
The Red-tailed Hawk is the most common hawk in Iowa.
Q2: What raptors are in Iowa?
Iowa is home to various raptors, including Red-tailed Hawks, American Kestrels, Bald Eagles, Northern Harriers, and Cooper’s Hawks.
Q3: Are there Cooper’s hawks in Iowa?
Yes, Cooper’s Hawks are found in Iowa.
Q4: What is the most famous hawk?
The Red-tailed Hawk is often considered one of the most famous hawks due to its widespread distribution and frequent appearances in North America.
