North Carolina Birds of Prey: Raptors, Owls, Falcons, Eagles & More (2025)

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You’ll find North Carolina birds of prey quite enthralling.

From the American Kestrel, North America’s smallest falcon, to the impressive Swallow-tailed Kite with its distinctive forked tail, these raptors command attention.

You’ll spot Northern Harriers gliding low over fields, their owl-like faces helping them locate prey.

Even the Peregrine Falcon, a threatened species, makes its home here.

Whether you’re familiar with the sharp-winged falcons or the buoyant flight of kites, observing these North Carolina birds of prey offers a glimpse into their unique hunting styles and behaviors.

Want to know how to distinguish a falcon from a kite? There’s much more to discover.

Falcons, Kites, and Harriers in North Carolina

You’ll spot North Carolina’s impressive aerial hunters – from the swift American Kestrel darting after insects to the graceful Swallow-tailed Kite gliding through summer skies.

Whether you’re watching a Northern Harrier skimming low over coastal marshes or a Peregrine Falcon swooping past city buildings, these agile birds showcase nature’s perfect design for speed and precision.

Falcons Found in The Carolinas

North Carolina’s skies dance with three magnificent falcon species year-round. You’ll spot the nimble American Kestrel, North America’s smallest and most abundant falcon, while the powerful Peregrine Falcon rules the western cliffs.

Here’s what makes these aerial hunters special: To learn more about these birds, visit the falcon species and their habitats.

• American Kestrels love open fields and often hover-hunt for prey
• Peregrine Falcons nest on vertical cliff ledges
• Merlins patrol our forests with swift precision
• Conservation remains essential, with Peregrines listed as threatened

Kites in The Carolinas

Above the Carolina skies, raptors in North Carolina put on a spectacular show, especially the graceful Mississippi and Swallow-tailed kites.

As a major success story, these kite species display distinct characteristics – the Mississippi Kite showcases sleek gray plumage and a square tail, while the Swallow-tailed Kite stands out with its striking forked tail.

Their kite behavior features buoyant flight and precise hunting in the Carolinas habitat, particularly near coastal areas.

For more information on raptor conservation, it’s essential to understand the protected status of these birds.

Through successful bird conservation, these remarkable birds of North Carolina have expanded their breeding range northward, enriching our skies with their aerial mastery.

Harriers in The Carolinas

Like silent shadows across the landscape, Northern Harriers glide gracefully over the Carolinas’ wetlands and fields. You’ll spot these remarkable raptors in nc’s eastern counties, where they’re winter residents with a unique hunting style.

They fly low, using their owl-like faces to detect prey by sound.

• Found mainly in open habitats from marshes to prairies
• Diet focuses on voles, cotton rats, and ground squirrels
• Males hunt lower and faster than females
• Prefer mixed vegetative cover for hunting
• Winter resident status in North Carolina

These north carolina birds of prey thrive in diverse Carolinas habitats, from agricultural fields to saltwater marshes, showcasing remarkable wetland ecology adaptations, and they are winter residents in North Carolina, with a unique hunting style.

Identifying Falcons, Kites, and Harriers

You’ll find north carolina birds of prey soaring through our skies with distinct personalities. Each group – from swift falcons to graceful kites – tells its own story through unique features.

During falcons migration, you’ll spot these aerial acrobats by their pointed wings and lightning-quick moves. The study of large birds in North Carolina reveals fascinating insights into their habitats and behaviors.

The NC Raptor Center offers fantastic opportunities to study feather identification up close. Watch these hunters work their magic – just don’t blink, or you might miss their incredible aerial shows.

Rare Species and Conservation

You’ll find some of North Carolina’s most elusive birds of prey, like the Gyrfalcon and Crested Caracara, hiding in unexpected places across our state’s diverse landscapes.

Whether you’re tracking these rare raptors or supporting local conservation efforts, you’re playing an important role in protecting these magnificent birds for future generations to enjoy.

Documenting Rare Bird Sightings

Spotting rare species while bird watching NC can feel like striking gold.

Join the NC Bird Atlas project through 2025 as a citizen science volunteer—grab your camera, note the details, and contribute to important research.

Upload your sighting reports to eBird or text local birding groups.

From camera traps to smartphone snapshots, every observation helps track these magnificent north carolina birds of prey.

Gyrfalcon and Eurasian Kestrel in North Carolina

The majestic Gyrfalcon occasionally ventures south from the Arctic into North Carolina, marking a rare treat for bird enthusiasts. These uncommon north carolina birds of prey inspire awe when spotted in unexpected places.

Crested Caracara in The Carolinas

Among North Carolina birds of prey, a rare visitor catches birders by surprise in open grasslands – the striking Crested Caracara. You’ll recognize this unique raptor by its bold orange face and feathered crown as it patrols prairies and ranchlands. Unlike typical falcons, these resourceful birds often walk the ground, showing off their unique prey behavior.

Feature Detail

Habitat

Diet

Sightings

Size

Range

For Carolinas wildlife enthusiasts, spotting this distinctive raptor feels like winning nature’s lottery!

Conservation Efforts for Birds of Prey

Soaring North Carolina birds of prey thrive through dedicated conservation efforts at places like the Carolina Raptor Center.

Wildlife protection initiatives have hit impressive milestones, rehabilitating over 10,000 raptors while fostering habitat preservation.

The raptor center products support local bird conservation.

Bird sanctuaries across the state partner with climbing coalitions to safeguard peregrine falcon nesting sites, showcasing how NC bird conservation brings communities together.

From protecting threatened species to implementing strategic raptor conservation plans, organizations like the NC Wildlife Federation work tirelessly.

They’ve established living museums, run educational programs, and maintain specialized facilities – all essential steps in ensuring our majestic raptors continue to grace Carolina skies, thanks to dedicated conservation and wildlife protection.

Osprey and Bald Eagle in North Carolina

Near North Carolina’s lakes and coastal waters, you’ll spot these majestic fishing experts.

Ospreys snatch fish with surgical precision, while bald eagles survey their domain from towering cypress trees.

Whether you’re watching an osprey’s spectacular plunge or tracking a bald eagle’s impressive 8-foot wingspan as it soars overhead, you’re in for an unforgettable show of nature’s finest anglers at work.

Osprey Habitat and Behavior

Watch North Carolina ospreys turn fishing into an art form! These remarkable birds live wherever there’s shallow water and plenty of fish. You’ll spot their impressive nests perched on everything from dead trees to telephone poles across the state. They’re adaptable too – they’ve even made homes in unexpected places like inner-city structures.

Want to witness these master fishers in action? Here’s what makes them special:

• They’re building new lives on artificial platforms in Lake Norman and Lake Wylie
• They’ve got an eagle eye for spotting fish in crystal-clear waters
• They’re turning chimneys into cozy nurseries
• They’re teaching their chicks the perfect fishing dive

Identifying Bald Eagles in The Wild

You’ll know you’ve spotted a Bald Eagle in North Carolina by its unmistakable white head and tail contrasting against a dark brown body.

These majestic birds of prey boast a impressive seven-foot wingspan.

Here’s your quick guide to eagle feather identification:

Feature	Description
Head & Tail	Pure white (adults)
Body	Dark chocolate brown
Wings	Uniformly brown
Beak	Bright yellow
Age Marks	Juveniles are dark brown

Bald Eagle Nesting and Feeding Habits

North carolina eagles have mastered the art of real estate selection – they return each fall to construct their massive nests in tall trees near water bodies. Their eagle nesting strategy involves both parents working as a skilled construction team, weaving sticks and greenery into sturdy homes that’ll last for generations of eaglets.

When it comes to feeding habits, these magnificent birds of prey aren’t picky eaters. While fish makes up about 66% of their diet, they’re opportunistic foragers who’ll snatch everything from turtles to small mammals. After the eggs hatch, both parents share hunting duties, carefully tearing food into bite-sized pieces for their chicks.

Conservation Status of Osprey and Bald Eagles

Since 2007, bald eagles and ospreys in North Carolina have made a remarkable comeback thanks to extensive habitat protection efforts.

You’ll spot these majestic birds soaring near Jordan Lake, where eagles winter in large numbers.

Wildlife preservation initiatives, including NCWF’s osprey nesting platforms, continue supporting their recovery.

• Protected nesting sites keep predatory mammals away from eagle territories
• Regular monitoring between ferry routes tracks population growth
• Bird sanctuaries maintain pristine water bodies essential for fishing

Red-Tailed Hawk Identification and Habitat

You’ll spot these magnificent birds soaring over North Carolina’s open farmlands and grasslands, where their rusty-red tail feathers flash like a beacon in the sunlight.

If you’re lucky enough to get close, you’ll notice they’re impressive hunters with a wingspan of up to 150cm, making them one of the most common and easily recognizable raptors in the state.

Red-Tailed Hawk Appearance and Size

Soaring majestically above Carolina’s landscapes, the Red-Tailed Hawk stands out with its rich brown hawk plumage and distinctive rusty tail. These remarkable carolina hawks species reach lengths of 19.7-25.6 inches, with females typically larger than males. You’ll notice their impressive wing span stretches 44.9-52.4 inches, perfect for effortless gliding.

The feather color varies, featuring dark chocolate-brown above and pale undersides, with a streaked belly that’s unmistakable. A curved, powerful beak shape and razor-sharp talons complement their robust build.

Red-Tailed Hawk Habitat and Distribution

The versatile Red-tailed Hawk thrives across North Carolina’s diverse landscapes, from mountain peaks to coastal plains.

They’re year-round residents, though some join the annual hawk migration south.

Hunting Habits of Red-Tailed Hawks

Red-tailed hawks, North Carolina’s expert hunters, prefer perch-hunting from telephone poles and tree branches over soaring.

You’ll spot these clever raptors using their laser-sharp vision and powerful talons to ambush prey with lightning precision.

Their hunting strategies include sudden swoops and strategic aerial pursuits, especially when targeting other birds.

Watch as these magnificent hawks turn every hunting expedition into nature’s most thrilling performance.

Diet and Prey of Red-Tailed Hawks

Watching these magnificent raptors hunt reveals fascinating insights into their prey selection.

You’ll find North Carolina’s red-tailed hawks displaying impressive hunting tactics as they target their favorite meals: squirrels, mice, and rabbits. They’ll also snatch up snakes and smaller birds when the opportunity strikes.

As skilled carnivores, they’re masters of their food chains, swooping down with deadly precision to catch unsuspecting prey. Understanding their red tailed hawk behaviors is important for appreciating these birds of prey in their natural habitats.

Red-Tailed Hawk Nesting, Reproduction, and Conservation

You’ll discover how red-tailed hawks build their impressive nests high in the treetops and raise their young in North Carolina’s diverse landscapes.

Whether you’re a bird enthusiast or just curious about these majestic raptors, you’ll learn about their courtship rituals, breeding habits, and the conservation efforts that help protect these incredible birds of prey.

Red-Tailed Hawk Nesting Habits

High in North Carolina’s diverse landscape, these master architects craft their sanctuaries with remarkable precision. Your chances of spotting these nesting sites in thick, upland hardwoods are best when you look skyward, where safe havens perch 20 to 90 feet up.

1. These skilled builders weave sturdy nests using sticks and twigs
2. They line their homes with bark strips and evergreen sprigs
3. Each year, they’ll return to expand their aerial sanctuaries

Reproduction and Mating Habits of Red-Tailed Hawks

Spring brings Red Tailed Hawks together in an intimate aerial dance above North Carolina’s skies. These majestic birds mate for life, partnering in a spectacular courtship ritual that begins at heights of 1,000 feet or more.

During hawk mating season, you’ll spot them circling together in perfect sync, their movements a demonstration of nature’s choreography.

• Males dive gracefully from above, showcasing their aerial mastery to potential mates
• Partners perform synchronized flight patterns, building trust through shared movements
• Pairs strengthen their bond through annual breeding rituals each spring

The red tail courtship displays conclude with both hawks soaring together in tight circles.

Conservation Status of Red-Tailed Hawks

The red-tailed hawk stands as North Carolina’s conservation success story. Since the mid-1960s, these magnificent birds of prey have shown remarkable population growth across the state. Protected by both federal and state laws, you’ll find these hawks thriving in their natural habitats, from deciduous forests to urban areas.

Here’s what you should know:

Wildlife preservation efforts and dedicated bird sanctuaries continue supporting their steady recovery across NC’s diverse landscapes, a true conservation success with protected species and a notable population growth.

Interactions With Humans and Pets

Red-tailed hawks, often seen atop the NC bird species list, may target small pets.

Protect chickens with secure coops and supervise outdoor pets. Loud noises work wonders to deter hawks during Backyard Encounters.

For persistent Human Bird Conflicts, explore depredation permits. Injured or abandoned hawks? Reach out to licensed wildlife rehabilitators specializing in birds of prey in North Carolina to guarantee humane care.

Other Birds of Prey in North Carolina

You’ll find North Carolina is home to a fascinating variety of birds of prey beyond the usual hawks and eagles.

From the elusive owls to the soaring vultures, each species brings its own impressive adaptations and hunting skills to the state’s diverse ecosystems.

Owls in North Carolina

Imagine walking through a quiet forest as dusk settles, and the haunting hoot of a Great Horned Owl cuts through the silence — it’s pure magic. North Carolina owls boast incredible night vision, keen hearing, and silent flight, making them masters of the night.

Their owl habitats range from swamps to suburban parks, with each species showcasing unique behaviors:

• Barred Owl: Known for its "Who-cooks-for-you?" call in wooded swamps.
• Eastern Screech-Owl: Small and vocal, often in urban areas.
• Barn Owl: Found in grasslands, silently controlling rodent pests.
• Great Horned Owl: Roams tall trees, fearless hunters of larger prey.

Turkey Vultures in The Carolinas

Turkey vultures, often seen gliding effortlessly over the Carolinas, embody nature’s recyclers. With a massive wingspan, they’re a mesmerizing part of north carolina vultures. Understanding turkey vulture identification is essential for appreciating these birds.

Hawks and Eagles in North Carolina

North Carolina’s skies showcase majestic raptors like hawks and eagles. The Red-tailed Hawk, the most common of six hawk species here, dominates open fields and forest edges with its striking reddish tail.

For eagle enthusiasts, the Bald Eagle stands as a symbol of freedom, often found near lakes and rivers, scanning for fish. Hawks in North Carolina, from agile Cooper’s Hawks to Sharp-Shinned varieties, highlight the state’s natural diversity.

These predators not only captivate with their soaring prowess but also play vital roles in maintaining ecosystems. Supporting bird conservation guarantees these awe-inspiring creatures, and their habitats, thrive.

Other Birds of Prey in The State

There’s more than just north carolina hawks in NC skies! These incredible birds each play a unique role:

1. Owls: Masters of the night, their silent wings strike swiftly.
2. Vultures: Nature’s recyclers, keeping ecosystems clean.
3. Falcons: Speed demons, legends in nc falconry.
4. Osprey: Fishing pros, icons of north carolina osprey conservation.

Their prey dynamics and nesting habits reveal a stunning balance across terrains.

Birds of Prey and Human Interactions

You’ve probably noticed how birds of prey can stir up some unexpected drama, whether they’re eyeing your backyard chickens or startling you with a swoop.

Understanding their behavior and knowing how to manage these encounters can help keep both you and these incredible raptors safe.

Protecting Chickens From Hawks

Worried about North Carolina hawks like the Red-tailed or Cooper’s hawk treating your flock as a fast-food stop?

Beef up your chicken coop security with hawk-deterrents like sturdy fencing strategies, overhead netting, or shiny objects that catch their eye.

Guard animals, like a feisty rooster or a dog, can also keep predators at bay.

Additionally, attracting crows through crow friendly environments can provide an extra layer of protection for your chickens.

Motion sensors or fake owls are other smart predator control tactics to send even the boldest red-shouldered hawks elsewhere for dinner.

Hawks Swooping at People

Ever wonder why hawks swoop at people? These raptors—like Redtailed Hawks or Coopers Hawks—aren’t out to get you. They’re just fiercely protecting their nests or hunting grounds.

Hawk attacks are rare, but understanding their bird defense moves keeps you safe. Watch for warning signs like circling or loud calls and give them space.

• Stay aware in hawk habitats, especially near tall trees.
• Avoid sudden movements close to their nests.
• Carry an umbrella as a shield against swooping behavior.

Can Hawks Carry Away Pets?

Can a hawk fly off with your pet? It’s not likely.

Hawks like the Red-tailed Hawk or Cooper’s Hawk hunt smaller prey like rodents or rabbits, not cats or dogs. A Sharpshinned Hawk prefers songbirds, and Northern Harriers stick to field mice.

Still, your tiny pup or outdoor cat might catch attention, so use simple Pet Protection Strategies like supervising outdoor time or adding a hawk-proof pen for peace of mind.

Depredation Permits for Hawks and Other Birds of Prey

When hawks cause trouble on your property, protecting your flock while respecting wildlife laws is key.

Finding and Caring for Injured Birds of Prey

If you find an injured bird of prey, it’s important to act carefully and responsibly to guarantee its safety and yours.

Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator as quickly as possible, and avoid handling the bird unless absolutely necessary.

What to Do With an Orphaned or Injured Hawk

Stumbling upon an injured or orphaned hawk in North Carolina can feel overwhelming, but with the right Hawk Rescue Tips, you can make a real difference. These raptors, like the Red-shouldered Hawk, need expert attention. Resist the urge to handle them—it’s risky for both you and the bird.

Instead, follow these steps:

Scenario	What to Do
Wounded hawk	Call the nearest NC wildlife refuge.

Your compassionate response guarantees these majestic birds get the Injured Bird Care they need while protecting our ecosystem’s balance.

Finding a Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

So, you’ve found a feathered friend in need. Now what? Your next mission: Operation Wildlife Rescue.

1. Scout out nearby NC bird sanctuaries and Carolina bird rescue options. Think of it as finding the best bird hospitals in town.
2. Confirm they’re the real deal—licensed rehabbers specializing in Carolina bird species, not just any animal care center. License verification is key!
3. Prepare for potential costs. Bird rehabilitation isn’t free, but saving a North Carolina falcon? Priceless. NC wildlife refuge centers might’ve resources, too.

When searching for a reliable licensed bird rehab center, consider the specialized care required for injured birds of prey.

Handling and Caring for Injured Birds of Prey

You’ve located a wildlife rehabilitator? Great!

Now, resist the urge to immediately jump into bird rescue mode. Instead, think "avian first aid" – gentle support until the professionals arrive. Improper handling can worsen injuries.

Let experts in prey rehabilitation provide the specialized wildlife care and injury assessment needed for North Carolina raptors. Your Carolina bird rescue journey starts with knowing your limits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)