By Avian Feathers Team
Published June 2025
Florida’s skies are full of action if you know where to look. From forested trails to suburban backyards and open marshes, these hawks are soaring, hunting, and calling. Some are easy to spot. Others might take a bit more patience. Either way, it’s a thrill every time.
Let’s take a look at seven hawks you can find across the Sunshine State.
1. Red-shouldered Hawk
This is one of the most common hawks in Florida. You’ll often hear their sharp “kee-ahh” call before you see them. Red-shouldered Hawks like wooded areas with nearby water. They have a bold, barred chest and true to their name, reddish shoulders that shine in good light.
Size
Length: 15–19 in (38–48 cm)
Wingspan: 38–42 in (96–107 cm)
Weight: 1.1–1.9 lbs (500–860 g)
Scientific Name: Buteo lineatus
2. Red-tailed Hawk
A classic highway bird, Red-tailed Hawks are often seen perched on poles or soaring over fields. They’re large, strong, and easy to identify once you know what to look for. The red tail is the giveaway, especially when the sun hits just right.
Size
Length: 18–26 in (45–65 cm)
Wingspan: 43–55 in (110–140 cm)
Weight: 1.5–3.5 lbs (700–1600 g)
Scientific Name: Buteo jamaicensis
3. Broad-winged Hawk
These smaller hawks are more secretive and love staying in forests. But in fall, they migrate in large flocks called “kettles.” If you’re lucky enough to catch them soaring overhead, it’s an unforgettable sight.
Size
Length: 13.5–17.5 in (34–44 cm)
Wingspan: 29–39 in (74–100 cm)
Weight: 9.3–19.8 oz (265–560 g)
Scientific Name: Buteo platypterus
4. Cooper’s Hawk
This sleek hawk is a backyard surprise hunter. They’re fast, agile, and great at chasing birds through trees. Cooper’s Hawks can be tricky to tell apart from Sharp-shinned Hawks, but Cooper’s are larger and more common around neighborhoods.
Size
Length: 13.5–20 in (35–50 cm)
Wingspan: 24–35 in (62–90 cm)
Weight: 8–24 oz (220–680 g)
Scientific Name: Accipiter cooperii
5. Sharp-shinned Hawk
The smallest hawk in Florida, but don’t let size fool you. Sharp-shinned Hawks are quick and sneaky. They dart in and out of trees, often surprising birds at feeders. Their small size and short wings help them fly like fighter jets through the woods.
Size
Length: 9–13.5 in (23–37 cm)
Wingspan: 17–26.5 in (42–68 cm)
Weight: 3–8 oz (82–220 g)
Scientific Name: Accipiter striatus
From the bold Red-shouldered Hawk to the zippy Sharp-shinned Hawk, Florida’s skies are full of exciting raptors. These birds may glide above forest canopies, swoop through quiet neighborhoods, or perch silently on fence posts and treetops. Their sharp eyes and graceful flight make every sighting feel special. With a little patience and curiosity, you can spot them in all kinds of places, from wild wetlands to your very own backyard.
Where to Spot Hawks in Florida
Florida’s mix of habitats makes it a great place to observe hawks. From deep forests to urban parks, here’s where to look:
Red-shouldered Hawk. Common in wooded areas near water. Try spots like Paynes Prairie, Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, or even shaded suburban neighborhoods.
Red-tailed Hawk. Seen across Florida, especially perched along highways or soaring over farmland. Look for them on poles and open country roads.
Broad-winged Hawk. Best seen during fall migration. Watch the skies in northern Florida for large flocks called kettles passing overhead.
Cooper’s Hawk. Often spotted in backyards and city parks. Listen for bird alarm calls — they often give this hunter away.
Sharp-shinned Hawk. Prefers forests and wooded areas but may show up at backyard feeders, especially during migration seasons.
Seen any of these hawks on your Florida adventures? Tell us which one is your favorite.