As you gaze up at the endless expanse of Tennessee’s blue skies, you may spot a swift, agile silhouette soaring through the clouds.
Hawks are one of the most majestic and awe-inspiring birds of prey that call the Volunteer State home.
With their piercing eyes, sharp talons, and impressive wingspans, hawks are a symbol of power and grace.
But did you know that Tennessee is home to not just one, but nine different species of hawks? Each one is unique in its own way, these magnificent creatures are a sight to behold.
So, buckle up and get ready to explore the nine types of hawks that call Tennessee their home.
| Image | Name |
|---|---|
 | Red-Tailed Hawk |
 | Sharp-Shinned Hawk |
 | Cooper's Hawk |
 | Red-Shouldered Hawk |
 | Northern Goshawk |
 | Broad-Winged Hawk |
 | Rough-Legged Hawk |
 | Swainson's Hawk |
 | Northern Harrier |
Types of Hawks in Tennessee
1. Red-Tailed Hawk
Buteo jamaicensis, often known as the Red-Tailed Hawk, is the species of hawk that is found in Tennessee the most frequently.
With a wing span of about four feet, this species is formidable in both size and strength.
It stands out thanks to its tail, which is a peculiar shade of reddish-brown, and its white belly, which is marked with brown streaks down the sides.
This species of hawk is common in forests and open fields, and it has been seen perching on tree branches and telephone poles as it searches the ground below for food.
In addition to eating birds, reptiles, and other birds, it may also be spotted hunting insects. It also eats small animals.
The Red-Tailed Hawk is a resident in Tennessee for the whole year, and the state is home to an estimated 7,500 individuals of this species.
2. Sharp-Shinned Hawk
The Sharp-Shinned Hawk, scientifically known as Accipiter striatus, is a tiny hawk with a wingspan that is little more than two feet.
Its back is the color of slate, while its bottom is white, and its tail is a rusty red.
It is common in urban parks and gardens, in addition to its natural habitat of forested regions.
Although insects and small animals make up the majority of the Sharp-Shinned Hawk’s diet, it will also consume reptiles and birds of prey.
This species lives in Tennessee during the whole year, and there are around 3,000 individuals in the state’s population.
3. Cooper’s Hawk
The Cooper’s Hawk (Accipiter cooperii) and the Sharp-Shinned Hawk (Accipiter nisus) are almost the same size and form, but the Cooper’s Hawk has a darker back and a barred tail.
This species prefers to live in forested regions, although it may also be found in urban parks and private gardens.
Although insects and small animals make up the majority of Cooper’s Hawk’s diet, they will also consume reptiles and birds of prey.
This species lives in Tennessee during the whole year, and there are around 5,000 individuals in the state’s population.
4. Red-Shouldered Hawk
The Red-Shouldered Hawk, scientifically known as Buteo lineatus, is a bird of prey that is of medium size and has a wingspan of over three feet.
Its topside is white, and it has a distinguishing red patch on its shoulders.
Its back is a reddish-brown color.
This species prefers to live in forested regions, and it may often be spotted foraging for food while perched on the limbs of trees in such environments.
The Red-Shouldered Hawk’s diet consists mostly of birds, reptiles, and small mammals, although it will also consume insects when necessary.
This species lives in Tennessee during the whole year, and there are around 1,500 individuals in the state’s population.
5. Northern Goshawk
The Northern Goshawk, scientifically known as Accipiter gentilis, is a huge and strong species of hawk that can spread its wings to a length of more than four feet.
It has a back that is the color of slate and an underside that is white. It also has a black cap and crimson eyes.
This species prefers to live in forested environments, where it may often be seen going for birds and small animals.
The Northern Goshawk lives in Tennessee during the whole year, and there are around 500 individuals in the state’s population.
6. Broad-Winged Hawk
Buteo platypterus, sometimes known as the Broad-Winged Hawk, is a hawk species that is medium-sized but has a wingspan of about three feet.
It has a dark brown barring pattern along the wings and tail, and its back is a reddish-brown color with a white underbelly.
This species lives in open fields and forests, where it hunts for small animals, reptiles, and birds by perching itself on telephone poles and the limbs of trees.
The Broad-Winged Hawk is a species that spends its summers in Tennessee and may be found in the state’s approximately 5,000 populations.
7. Rough-Legged Hawk
The Rough-Legged Hawk, scientifically known as Buteo lagopus, is a huge and strong bird of prey with a wing span of about three and a half feet.
Its back has a dark brown color, its underside is white, and its legs are yellow.
This species lives in wide fields and grasslands, where it hunts for small animals, reptiles, and birds by perching itself on telephone poles and the limbs of trees.
Tennessee is home to around 500 individuals of the Rough-Legged Hawk, a species that spends the winter months in the state.
8. Swainson’s Hawk
The wingspan of the Swainson’s Hawk (Buteo swainsoni) is close to three feet, making it a hawk of the medium-size category.
It has a white bottom, a brown back, and wings that are a reddish-brown color.
This species lives in wide fields and grasslands, where it hunts for small animals, reptiles, and birds by perching itself on telephone poles and the limbs of trees.
The Swainson’s Hawk is a species of hawk that spends its summers in Tennessee and has a population of approximately 500 individuals there.
9. Northern Harrier
The face of the northern harrier is graceful and resembles an owl in several ways.
This face, which is in the form of a disc, acts in a manner very similar to that of an owl’s, channeling sound into their ears to assist them in hunting both visually and aurally.
The animal’s long tail and the white spot that sits just above it are two characteristics that might be used to recognize it.
Their recognizable flight pattern involves keeping their wings in a “V” formation while in flight.
These birds are very magnificent in every way. Majestic is the perfect word to describe them.
The northern harrier spends most of its time in Tennessee throughout the colder months of the year.
They are more likely to be seen flying over open places such as fields, marshlands, and the like.
This particular species of hawk constructs its nest on the ground amongst thick vegetation such as willows, reeds, cattails, and sedges.
Other hawks prefer to make their nests in trees.
Males are able to have two or even more partners at the same time, and all of their partners will supply food for the female and her children.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Tennessee’s skies are truly a haven for hawks, with nine different species soaring through the air.
From the fierce and determined Red-tailed Hawk to the stealthy and elusive Sharp-shinned Hawk, each species brings its own unique characteristics and beauty to the state’s wildlife.
These birds of prey play an important role in the ecosystem, helping to keep populations of smaller animals in check.
But beyond their ecological significance, hawks inspire awe and wonder in all who witness their majestic flights.
So, the next time you find yourself gazing up at the skies in Tennessee, keep your eyes peeled for these magnificent creatures and take a moment to appreciate the diversity of life that surrounds us.
FAQ
How many species of hawks are found in Tennessee?
Tennessee is home to nine different species of hawks.
What is the most common species of hawk in Tennessee?
The Red-tailed Hawk is the most common species of hawk in Tennessee.
Are there any endangered species of hawks in Tennessee?
Yes, the Red-shouldered Hawk is listed as a threatened species in Tennessee.
How can I identify different species of hawks in Tennessee?
Each species of a hawk has its own unique physical characteristics, such as size, coloration, and markings. Field guides and online resources can be helpful for identifying different species of hawks in Tennessee.
Are hawks dangerous to humans?
Hawks generally avoid humans and are not a threat to people. However, it is important to keep a safe distance and not disturb their nests or hunting areas.
Last Updated on March 22, 2023 by Lily Aldrin
