Birds Of Prey In Florida

Florida is home to a diverse range of birds of prey due to its varied ecosystems, including wetlands, forests, and coastal regions. Some of the prominent birds of prey found in Florida include:

  • Osprey (Pandion haliaetus): Also known as the “fish hawk” or “sea hawk,” the osprey is a widespread bird of prey in Florida. It is easily recognizable by its white head, dark patches near the eyes, and strong, hooked beak. Ospreys are adept at catching fish from bodies of water and are often seen nesting on tall structures like telephone poles and platforms near the water. Osprey
  • Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus): The bald eagle is the national bird of the United States and can be found in various parts of Florida. Adult bald eagles have a striking appearance, with their white head and tail feathers contrasting against their dark brown body. They mainly feed on fish but also scavenge for carrion or hunt other small animals.                                             Bald Eagle
  • Red-shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus): This medium-sized hawk is a common resident of Florida’s wooded areas. It has a distinctive reddish-brown shoulder patch and often emits a loud, piercing call. Red-shouldered hawks primarily hunt small mammals, amphibians, and reptiles.        Red-shouldered Hawk
  • Cooper’s Hawk (Accipiter cooperii): Cooper’s hawks are agile predators that hunt birds and small mammals. They are often seen darting through trees or soaring above wooded areas in search of prey. Adults have blue-gray feathers on their back and wings, with a reddish-brown barred chest.                                                                                                                                                              Cooper's Hawk
  • Swallow-tailed Kite (Elanoides forficatus): This graceful bird of prey is unmistakable with its black and white plumage and deeply forked tail. Swallow-tailed kites are migratory and can be found in Florida during their breeding season. They are highly adept at catching flying insects, particularly dragonflies.                                                                                                                                          Swallow-tailed Kite bird
  • Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus): Peregrine falcons are known for their incredible speed and agility, making them one of the fastest animals on Earth. They have a bluish-gray back and wings with a lighter underbelly. Peregrine falcons primarily feed on other birds, which they capture in mid-air through impressive aerial dives.                                                                                                        Peregrine Falcon
  • Northern Harrier (Circus hudsonius): The northern harrier, also known as the marsh hawk, can be found in Florida’s marshy habitats. It has a distinctive white rump and a habit of flying low over open fields and marshes while hunting for small mammals and birds.

These are just a few examples of the many fascinating birds of prey that can be spotted in Florida. The state’s diverse ecosystems provide these majestic creatures a rich and varied habitat.

Florida Birds Of Prey Hotspots For Bird Watching

Florida offers numerous excellent birdwatching hotspots for observing birds of prey and other avian species. Some of the top locations known for their diverse bird populations, including birds of prey, are:

  • Everglades National Park: One of the world’s most famous and diverse birdwatching destinations, the Everglades is home to a wide variety of birds of prey. You can spot ospreys, bald eagles, swallow-tailed kites, red-shouldered hawks, and more. Shark Valley and Anhinga Trail are popular spots within the park for birdwatching.
  • Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge: Located on Florida’s Atlantic coast, this refuge is a haven for many bird species, including various birds of prey. Look for red-tailed hawks, northern harriers, peregrine falcons, and even occasional sightings of the elusive snail kite.
  • Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary: This sanctuary in Southwest Florida offers a unique experience for birdwatchers. You might spot barred owls, Cooper’s hawks, and other raptors along the boardwalk through the cypress swamp.
  • Myakka River State Park: Situated near Sarasota, Myakka River State Park is home to diverse birdlife. Look for bald eagles, red-shouldered hawks, and swallow-tailed kites.
  • Darling National Wildlife Refuge: Located on Sanibel Island, this refuge provides an opportunity to observe various birds, including ospreys, bald eagles, and peregrine falcons.
  • Tomoka State Park: Positioned near Daytona Beach, this park is known for its populations of red-shouldered hawks, ospreys, and occasional northern harriers.
  • Honeymoon Island State Park: Along Florida’s Gulf Coast, this park is great for observing ospreys and bald eagles nesting near the shoreline.
  • St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge: Found in the Panhandle, this refuge attracts a variety of raptors during migration, including kestrels, harriers, and red-tailed hawks.
  • Wakodahatchee Wetlands: Located in Palm Beach County, this wetland area attracts a range of wading birds, including great blue herons and anhingas, which can attract birds of prey looking for easy meals.

Remember to come with your binoculars and camera, as these hotspots offer fantastic opportunities to observe and photograph Florida’s beautiful birds of prey and other bird species in their natural habitats. Additionally, please respect wildlife and their habitats by observing from a distance and following park guidelines or regulations.