Large Birds for Ohio: Eagles, Herons, Hawks & More to Spot for 2025

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Ohio is home to some truly spectacular large birds!

You’ve got Bald Eagles with their massive 6-7 foot wingspan gliding high above lakes, while Red-tailed Hawks patrol fields and forests, hunting squirrels like it’s their day job.

At night, the Great Horned Owl silently swoops through the trees, ready to snag its next meal.

For speed fans, Peregrine Falcons dive at jaw-dropping 200+ mph—nature’s fighter jets!

Don’t forget the Great Blue Herons; these long-legged wetland wanderers look like dinosaurs with feathers.

Keep an eye out—you never know which majestic giant might cross your path next.

Nature always has surprises! 

Large Birds of Prey in Ohio

If you’ve ever wanted to spot nature’s fiercest hunters, Ohio’s large birds of prey are a must-see.

From the majestic bald eagle to the speedy peregrine falcon, these feathered predators will leave you in awe!

Bald Eagles

The bald eagle, a true icon, is soaring high in Ohio these days.

You’ll find these majestic birds of prey near rivers, swamps, and marshes, where they build sturdy nests—Ohio boasts over 900 of them.

For more information about Ohio’s raptors, see this Ohio birds of prey guide.

With a massive 6-7 foot wingspan, they’re pros at hunting fish and scavenging carrion.

Their comeback story is pure inspiration, proving conservation works! 礪

Red-Tailed Hawks

Red-tailed Hawks, with their striking reddish tails, are a sight to behold in Ohio’s skies.

These adaptable birds of prey thrive in everything from city parks to forests.

Talk about versatile!

Ohio is also home to various water bird species.

Great Horned Owls

The Great Horned Owl is a nighttime superhero among large birds in Ohio.

Known for their silent flight and remarkable feather camouflage, they thrive in diverse owl habitats.

They’re masters of night hunting, swooping down silently to grab prey with precision.

Their piercing owl vision is perfect for spotting rodents and birds in the dark.

Understanding the great horned owl habits is essential for conservation efforts.

• Diet: Rodents, birds, and rabbits
• Habitat: Forests, suburbs, and fields
• Sounds: Deep, haunting hoots
• Nesting: Adopts abandoned nests

Peregrine Falcons

Peregrine Falcons are like the Formula 1 stars of Ohio’s skies, reaching jaw-dropping speeds of over 200 mph during hunts.

Their impressive feather structure and precise aerial hunting keep them nimble as they snatch flying prey.

Found in urban cliffs and open spaces, these stunning birds of prey play a key role in bird conservation while amazing Ohio bird-watchers.

For fans of these raptors, peregrine falcon Ohio products are available for purchase.

Coopers Hawks

Coopers Hawks are like woodland ninjas.

They zip through trees, ambushing songbirds with incredible speed and agility.

Spot these sleek hunters by their long tail, rounded wings, and smooth glides through the canopy.

For enthusiasts, learning about Coopers Hawk products can enhance the overall birdwatching experience.

• Hawk Diet: Mainly songbirds, occasionally small mammals.
• Flight Patterns: Silent and swift, perfect for ambush hunting.
• Bird Nesting: Builds nests high in trees.
• Feather Care: Fastidious preening keeps them stealthy in flight.

Big Black Birds in Ohio

Ohio’s big black birds are hard to miss, from the clever American Crow to the soaring Black Vulture.

These feathered giants bring personality to the skies, whether they’re calling out loudly or gliding above the treetops with a watchful eye.

American Crows

Ever notice those glossy black feathers glinting in the Ohio sunshine? That’s an American Crow, one of the smartest large birds in Ohio.

These clever characters are like nature’s comedians, solving puzzles and even using tools! Their loud caws? It’s their complex way of chatting.

• Crow Behavior: Highly social with unique calls.
• Crow Diet: They’ll eat almost anything – insects, seeds, even fries.
• Intelligent Birds: Problem-solvers extraordinaire.
• Crow Migration: Mostly stick around, just shuffling locally.

Common Ravens

Ever spot a Common Raven?

These forest dwellers are bigger and bolder than crows, with glossy black feathers and wild intelligence.

Known for their playful tricks and croaky calls, they’re the brainiacs of large birds in Ohio.

Ravens can solve puzzles, mimic sounds, and scavenge almost anything.

Keep an eye out at landfills or woods—you’ll be amazed!

Barred Owls

Ever hear the eerie "Who cooks for you?" call?

That’s the Barred Owl, a star among Ohio’s forest owls.

These large birds thrive in mature woodlands, hunting small mammals, birds, and frogs.

With their soulful eyes and silent wings, they’re a must-spot for anyone into Ohio bird watching.

Protecting their habitats keeps woodland songs alive! 

Black Vultures

Black Vultures bring an edgy charm to Ohio’s skies with their black feathers and scavenging habits.

These large birds aren’t just nature’s cleanup crew—they’re groupies of the animal kingdom.

• Vulture behavior: Watch them soaring in tight formations.
• Scavenging experts: Cleaning up carcasses like pros.
• Bird watching bonus: Common near woodlands and farms.

Their role in the ecosystem reminds us why Ohio bird watching is worth every moment.

Birds With Long Legs in Ohio

If you’ve ever spotted an elegant bird strolling through Ohio’s wetlands, odds are it was one with impressively long legs.

From the towering Great Blue Herons to the Sandhill Cranes, these birds know how to wade, hunt, and look stylish doing it!

Great Blue Herons

The Great Blue Heron is Ohio’s wetland superstar.

With striking blue feathers and lanky legs, these water birds stand tall, hunting fish with ninja-like precision.

Their graceful swoops during heron migration are pure magic.

If you love large birds in Ohio, keep an eye out for their nests high in trees—they’re like nature’s penthouses!

Snowy Egrets

Snowy Egrets, with their striking snowy feathers, are a real treat for bird lovers in Ohio’s wetlands.

During spring, their migration brings them here to nest in colonies.

Watch for their delicate dances and quick hunting moves.

Their charm is unforgettable!

Great Egrets

You’ll love spotting Great Egrets in Ohio’s wetlands—they’re nature’s ballerinas with their long legs and flowing feathers.

Their diet of fish keeps them gracefully wading, and these elegant birds often build nests high in trees, forming bustling colonies.

Thanks to bird conservation efforts, their epic Egret migration is thriving, making them a treat for any birds of Ohio field guide!

Sandhill Cranes

Ever spotted a Sandhill Crane? These large birds grace Ohio’s wetlands with their towering legs and prehistoric charm.

During crane migration, their bugling calls fill the skies—a sound you’ll never forget!

Known for their elegant waltz-like mating dances, they thrive in rich wetland ecology.

Thanks to ongoing bird conservation efforts, these giants of the air continue to bring wild beauty to Ohio’s landscapes.

Birds With Red Heads in Ohio

If you’ve ever spotted a bird with a fiery red head in Ohio, you’ve witnessed some of nature’s most striking avian beauties.

From the bold Red-Headed Woodpecker to the cheerful Northern Cardinal, these colorful birds are a treat to see and easy to recognize!

Red-Headed Woodpeckers

Ohio’s Red-Headed Woodpeckers aren’t just pretty faces—they’re crowd favorites with their fiery red heads, crisp white cheeks, and bold black-and-white bodies.

These impressive birds of Ohio shine in woodland ecology, especially in open oak and pine forests.

They’re clever too, stashing away snacks like nuts and berries for colder months.

For more information about Ohio woodpeckers, see this Ohio woodpecker guide.

These quirky Ohio bird species deserve more love!

Red-Winged Blackbirds

Red-winged blackbirds are like Ohio’s splash of red on a canvas of wetlands and fields.

Males show off bold red-and-yellow shoulder patches, singing loudly to mark their turf.

They thrive on insects and seeds, adapting easily to habitat loss.

During bird migration, their flocking behavior is a sight to see.

Feature	Description	Fun Fact
Shoulder Colors	Red and yellow	Flashy males attract mates!
Habitat	Wetlands, fields	Found near marshy areas.
Diet	Insects, seeds	Love summer bugs!
Nesting Patterns	Low vegetation nests	Hidden near water.

Northern Cardinals

Spotting a Northern Cardinal is like finding a ruby in a tree.

These bright Ohio birds are famous for their songs and protective nesting habits.

Watch their bold Cardinal behavior as they fiercely guard their eggs.

From feather care to unique song patterns, they bring personality to your yard.

No migration routes here—they’re loyal, year-round residents, and this loyal nature makes them a delight to observe throughout the year.

Scarlet Tanagers

Scarlet Tanagers bring a flash of color to Ohio’s forests, like a ruby tucked among the trees.

Their vibrant bird feathers stand out in forest habitats, creating an unforgettable sight, with their unmistakable scarlet plumage and flutelike song patterns.

These Ohio bird species migrate from South America, arriving in summer, and protecting these homes keeps this beauty alive.

Watch for them—it’s worth it!

Geese and Swans in Ohio

If you love graceful, feathered giants, Ohio’s geese and swans are a must-see.

From the chatty Canada Geese to the majestic Trumpeter Swans, these waterbirds bring both charm and drama to the state’s lakes and wetlands!

Canada Geese

If you’ve seen a V-shaped flock overhead, chances are it’s Canada Geese on their famous migration.

These adaptable birds thrive in parks, lakes, and backyards, making themselves at home anywhere with water and grass.

Known for their loud honking and protective nesting habits, they’re some of the largest birds in Ohio.

Love them or not, they’re hard to miss!

Snow Geese

Snow Geese bring magic to Ohio’s skies during migration. They gather in enormous flocks, turning wetlands into bird-filled wonderlands. Their flocking behavior is a survival marvel, but their conservation status faces challenges.

They rely on Ohio’s wetlands as essential feeding habitats. Flocks can reach tens of thousands, creating memorable sights. Mixed population trends suggest ongoing conservation needs, which can be understood through the following points:

1. They rely on Ohio’s wetlands as essential feeding habitats.
2. Flocks can reach tens of thousands, creating memorable sights.
3. Mixed population trends suggest ongoing conservation needs.

Tundra Swans

Tundra Swans are the royalty of Swan Migration Patterns, traveling thousands of miles from the Arctic tundra to their cozy Wintering Grounds.

These graceful giants stick together like loyal dance partners, their monogamous bonds inspiring.

Dining on aquatic vegetation fuels their incredible journeys.

Spot these large birds in Ohio wetlands, where their elegance reminds you nature’s got its own magic show waiting.

Trumpeter Swans

The Trumpeter Swan is one of the largest and most graceful waterfowl you’ll spot in Ohio. Once nearly wiped out, it’s now thriving in the state thanks to dedicated conservation efforts—talk about a comeback! These snow-white beauties, with their long, elegant necks, are a true delight to see gliding across lakes and wetlands.

While the Trumpeter Swan is a remarkable sight, Ohio is also home to many other common birds in Ohio.

Mute Swans

Graceful yet feisty, mute swans are striking guests among the large birds in Ohio.

Originally from Europe, they’ve settled into ponds and lakes, effortlessly gliding like floating royalty.

But don’t let their elegance fool you—approach their nests too closely, and you’ll face some serious swan sass!

Known for their nesting habits along water and safeguarding their young with fierce dedication, these big birds thrive on aquatic plants, making feather care a priority.

Their flock behavior is peaceful, but their hiss says, “Don’t mess with us!”

Birds of a Feather in Ohio

Ohio’s “birds of a feather” are some of the largest and most fascinating creatures you’ll ever spot.

From the gobbling Wild Turkeys to the impressive wingspans of American White Pelicans, there’s never a dull moment when you’re birdwatching in the Buckeye State!

Wild Turkeys

Ever seen a Wild Turkey strut? These giants of Ohio’s woodlands aren’t just for Thanksgiving chatter.

1. Turkey Habitat: They thrive in grassy clearings and forests.
2. Foraging Strategies: Turkeys peck for seeds, nuts, and the occasional bug.
3. Flocking Behavior: Watch males gobble and fan tails—it’s their showtime!
4. Turkey Conservation: Once dwindling, these large birds of Ohio are soaring again thanks to conservation efforts.

These points highlight the interesting aspects of Wild Turkeys, from their Turkey Habitat and Foraging Strategies to their unique Flocking Behavior and the success of Turkey Conservation efforts.

Pileated Woodpeckers

The Pileated Woodpecker is like Ohio’s forest royalty, with its fiery red crest and bold personality.

Spot them in large, mature forests with plenty of dead or fallen trees—prime real estate for a woodpecker!

They dine on carpenter ants, wood-boring beetles, and even the occasional berry.

Here’s a quick guide:

Feature	Details
Habitat	Mature forests, fallen trees
Diet	Ants, beetles, fruits, nuts
Nesting	Large tree cavities
Ecosystem Role	Forest health, tree hollow creator

Listen for the “kuk-kuk-kuk” call—another reason to hit Ohio birding trails!

American White Pelicans

Spot one of the largest birds in Ohio, the American White Pelican, with its massive wingspan and graceful white feathers.

These giants glide in large flocks during Pelican Migration, often forming mesmerizing V-shapes.

Known for their aquatic diet, they’re master anglers, using teamwork to catch fish.

Their comeback is a demonstration of bird conservation—truly a must-see for bird watching in Ohio!

Double-Crested Cormorants

Ohio’s Double-Crested Cormorants look like slick, black torpedoes, darting beneath the water.

These big, bold waterbirds are thriving thanks to conservation efforts.

Spot them near quiet Ohio lakes.

Birds of Prey in Ohio Habitats

You’re in for a treat when spotting Ohio’s birds of prey, as these raptors have mastered the art of hunting and thriving in diverse habitats.

From forests to marshes and even urban areas, hawks, eagles, and owls bring drama to the skies with their sharp talons and keen eyesight.

Forests and Woodlands

When you wander into Ohio’s woodlands, nature’s drama unfolds above you.

The Tree Canopy hosts Bald Eagles soaring majestically, while Cooper’s Hawks zip between branches like feathery acrobats.

These Woodland Bird Habitats are hunting decks and nesting sanctuaries.

Keep an eye out for the Pileated Woodpecker, hammering away at timber like a lumberjack, or a Wild Turkey scratching below.

Ohio’s forest ecology isn’t just trees and timber—it’s a wildwood conservation treasure hiding large bird sightings waiting for you.

Grasslands and Prairies

Leaving the forest’s canopy behind, open lands burst with life—prairie hawks soaring like nature’s own explorers over grassland birds darting among the wildflowers.

These large birds of Ohio love the open skies, thriving in meadows and grassy expanses.

Here’s why prairies are bird magnets:

1. Easy spot hunting.
2. Plentiful meadow life for meals.
3. Wildflowers attract their favorite food.
4. Nesting hideouts galore.
5. Room to stretch those enormous wings, a true marvel of nature.

Wetlands and Marshes

Wetlands and marshes feel like nature’s secret hideouts, teeming with incredible large birds.

These wetland birds thrive thanks to Ohio’s marsh ecology and ongoing coastal conservation efforts.

Urban and Suburban Areas

City habitats buzz with more than cars and people—urban birds are thriving, with large birds in Ohio adapting impressively to their environments.

From red-tailed hawks perched on downtown skyscrapers to suburban wildlife visiting backyard feeders, the variety of bird life is notable.

Owls enjoy quiet neighborhoods, while falcons turn office towers into high-rise homes, showcasing the diverse range of habitats these birds occupy.

Bird Type	Habitat Feature	Behavior	Common Spot	Fun Fact
Red-Tailed Hawk	Nest on buildings	Hunts rodents	Skyscrapers	Loves sunny rooftops
Peregrine Falcon	High ledges	Dives for pigeons	Urban parks	Fastest bird alive!
Great Horned Owl	Tree-lined streets	Silent hunting at night	City outskirts	Known as forest "tigers"
Barred Owl	Quiet neighborhoods	Calls “who cooks for you”	Suburban trees	Less shy near humans
American Crow	Open spaces	Scavenges food scraps	Parking lots	Crazy smart problem-solvers

Spotting these birds of prey is an exciting experience, akin to finding wild treasures in the city, highlighting the unique opportunity for urban wildlife observation.

Large Waterbirds in Ohio

Ohio’s wetlands and lakes are treasure troves for spotting large waterbirds.

For more information, explore this guide to Ohio water bird species.

Nature’s theater awaits. ❤️

Birds With Distinctive Calls in Ohio

Ohio’s large birds bring the forests, marshlands, and backyards alive with their unique bird calls.

The Barred Owl’s famous hoot, a cozy “Who cooks for you?”, feels like a nighttime lullaby in the woods.

You can often hear it when the world quiets down – pure magic for owl fans!

Learning about bird species with unique calls can enhance any birding experience.

Then there’s the American Crow, whose loud “caw-caw” might feel less enchanting but just as unmistakable.

Their bold voices echo like nature’s gossip in Ohio’s parks and suburban trees.

For a deeper, throatier sound, listen for the Common Raven’s croak, which adds a haunting vibe to Ohio’s wild landscapes.

These vocal birds, with their distinct auditory signals, turn every nature walk into an Ohio bird guide adventure. 

Rare and Endangered Large Birds in Ohio

Ever wonder about Ohio’s rarest and most endangered large birds?

These feathered wonders aren’t just a sight to behold—they’re fighting for survival.

Take the Whooping Crane, for example.

It’s one of the largest birds in Ohio, and though they’re making a comeback, their journey isn’t easy.

Wetlands, their natural homes, are disappearing faster than ice cream on a summer day.

That’s where you come in!

Every little bit counts! 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)