Recently, New Jersey Photographer Eric Capers had a split instant to capture a fantastic site; a Red Hawk flying towards him with a fresh “snatch-and-grab.” He was lucky enough to capture the moment on his
See what he had to say about the experience and capturing this incredible moment:
“Red-shouldered Hawk with a snatch-and-grab! After catching this vole, He flew right at me and over my head. So close that I could feel the wake turbulence. Didn’t have time to zoom out to get his wingtips in to the frame.”
Where are the Red Hawks in New Jersey?
The red-shouldered hawk is a common bird of prey found throughout New Jersey. These hawks are typically found in deciduous woodland areas, especially near water sources, and can be seen perched atop trees or soaring overhead. They feed on various small rodents, insects, and even other birds, making them an essential part of the local ecosystem.
Explore More Birding Spots Around New Jersey
During the spring and summer months, the red-shouldered hawk can be spotted in all 21 counties of New Jersey. With their distinctive call and striking colors, they are sure to add some excitement to any birding trip.
Some hotspots for spotting these majestic birds include:
- Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge in Morris County
- Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge in Atlantic County
- Sourland Mountain Preserve in Mercer County
What kind of hawks are in New Jersey?
New Jersey is home to a wide variety of hawks, including the red-tailed hawk, Cooper’s hawk, and the broad-winged hawk. Red-tailed hawks are some of the most recognizable birds in New Jersey. They can be found in all corners of the state and are commonly seen soaring at high altitudes with their distinctive reddish tails trailing behind them.
The Cooper’s hawk is smaller than its red-tailed counterpart, but it makes up for its size with its prowess as an aerial hunter. It is fondly referred to as “the bird of prey” due to its aggressive hunting tactics and renowned acrobatic skills in flight.
Lastly, the broad-winged hawk is a migratory species found anywhere in New Jersey during migration seasons. These large birds have dark brown wings with white patches and long tails that they use to maneuver through the air while searching for food on the ground below. All three species of hawks provide a fantastic sight for those lucky enough to witness them in New Jersey!
This handy book features 132 species of New Jersey birds organized by color for ease of use. Full-page photographs present the species as you’ll see them in nature, and a “compare” feature helps you to decide between look-alikes.
What Is the Biggest Hawk in New Jersey?
The biggest hawk in New Jersey is the Red-tailed Hawk. This majestic bird of prey can reach up to 18 inches in length and have a wingspan of nearly 4 feet. Its distinct red tail and brownish body provide an impressive sight when seen soaring through the skies or perched atop a tree. The Red-tailed Hawk is a common resident of New Jersey, though it migrates south during the winter months.
The diet of the Red-tailed Hawk consists mainly of small rodents, reptiles, amphibians, and other birds. Still, they will also occasionally feed on larger animals such as rabbits or squirrels. They are often seen near open fields and grasslands where their preferred prey is abundant. The Red-tailed Hawk is an important part of the New Jersey ecosystem and helps to keep rodent populations in check.
