New Jersey’s diverse landscapes provide habitat and migratory pathways for various hawk species. These birds of prey are a key part of the state’s natural environment. Their presence highlights the rich biodiversity found across New Jersey, from dense forests to coastal plains.
Hawks Commonly Seen Year-Round
New Jersey is home to several hawk species observable throughout the year. These include the Red-tailed Hawk, Red-shouldered Hawk, and Cooper’s Hawk, which have established resident populations.
The Red-tailed Hawk is the most widespread hawk in New Jersey, often seen soaring above open fields or perched along highways. This large hawk has a brown back, a pale underside, a streaked belly, and a signature reddish-brown tail. Red-tailed Hawks are adaptable, found in diverse environments including forests and urban areas, and primarily hunt small to medium-sized mammals like mice and voles. They are known for their raspy cry.
The Red-shouldered Hawk is also a year-round resident, favoring wooded areas near water sources like swamps and rivers. This species is distinguished by its reddish-brown shoulders, pale underparts with rust-colored barring, and black-and-white checkered wings. They are often heard before seen due to their sharp, repetitive calls. Red-shouldered Hawks build large nests high in deciduous trees.
The Cooper’s Hawk, a woodland hawk, is also present year-round in New Jersey. It is known for its agility, maneuvering through dense forest canopies. Adults have a dark cap, a blue-gray back, and rusty, barred feathers on their chest and belly. Cooper’s Hawks frequently hunt small to medium-sized birds.
Hawks of Migration and Seasonal Presence
New Jersey serves as a stopover point for several hawk species during their annual migrations. These include the Broad-winged Hawk, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Northern Harrier, and Osprey.
Broad-winged Hawks are primarily seen in New Jersey during their fall migration, from mid-September to early October. These medium-sized hawks form large flocks called “kettles,” numbering thousands as they soar on thermals to conserve energy. They arrive for breeding in mid-April to early May and depart by mid-September.
Sharp-shinned Hawks, the smallest hawks in North America, are common in New Jersey, especially during migration. These agile raptors dart through forests with speed and maneuverability. They are characterized by slate-gray backs and white underparts with reddish-orange barring, and primarily prey on small birds.
Northern Harriers are widespread in New Jersey, with increased numbers during migration. These slender, medium-sized birds are identified by their low-flying, gliding hunting style over grasslands and marshes. They possess distinctive owl-like faces and primarily hunt small mammals and birds. They build nests on the ground in dense wetlands or grasslands.
Ospreys, sometimes called fish hawks, are seasonal visitors to New Jersey, returning to the coast from early spring to late summer for nesting. They are known for their six-foot wingspans and their hunting technique of diving feet-first into water to catch fish. Ospreys migrate south every fall to wintering grounds, returning to New Jersey by mid-March. They often reuse nesting platforms, including human-made structures.
Key Features for Identification
Identifying different hawk species involves observing several distinguishing characteristics. These include overall size and body shape, flight patterns, plumage details, and preferred habitats.
Size and shape are key indicators; hawks range from small, compact birds to large, broad-winged raptors. Observing wing shape (broad or pointed) and tail length provides immediate clues. For instance, accipiters like the Cooper’s Hawk have short, rounded wings and long tails, aiding agile flight through dense cover.
Flight patterns offer another identification aspect. Some hawks, like Red-tailed Hawks, soar in wide circles on thermals. Others, such as Sharp-shinned Hawks, exhibit a “flap-and-glide” flight style, characterized by rapid wingbeats followed by a short glide.
Plumage provides detailed visual cues. General color categories, such as rufous tones, streaked underparts, or tail banding, are important. Distinctive markings, like a Red-tailed Hawk’s tail color or a Red-shouldered Hawk’s shoulders, are key identifiers.
Habitat association can narrow down possibilities, as different hawks prefer specific environments. Some species, like Ospreys, are found near water, while others, like Cooper’s Hawks, frequent woodlands and suburban areas. Vocalizations can also be unique and aid identification.
Prime Locations for Hawk Watching
New Jersey offers several locations for observing hawks, particularly during migratory periods. These sites provide vantage points to witness raptor migration and year-round hawk activity.
Cape May Point State Park is a top location for bird migration, especially for hawks in the fall. Its peninsular shape funnels southbound birds, concentrating large numbers of raptors. An official hawk counter is present at the hawkwatch platform from September through November. Peak flights, numbering thousands, often occur after a cold front.
The Kittatinny Ridge, extending through northern New Jersey, is another migratory flyway for raptors. Sites along this ridge, such as Montclair Hawkwatch and State Line Lookout, offer opportunities to see various hawk species, particularly during fall migration. Hawks use updrafts and thermals along the ridge to conserve energy during their journeys.
Other locations include High Point State Park, known for Northern Goshawks and Red-tailed Hawks, and Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, home to Cooper’s Hawks and Northern Harriers. Barnegat Lighthouse State Park is also a good spot during migration. Early mornings or late afternoons are often best for viewing, as hawks are more active then. Bringing binoculars and a field guide enhances the hawk-watching experience.