10 Stealthy Predators Hunting Hawks in the Wild

In the avian world, hawks reign as fierce predators, but even these aerial assassins aren’t immune to becoming prey themselves. A study ¹ found that up to 36% of hawk mortality in some regions can be attributed to predation, challenging our perceptions of these seemingly invincible birds.

Which creature will surprise you the most as we count down the top 10 predators that feast on hawks?

1. Eagles

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Eagles are supreme rulers in the avian world and are unafraid to take on their smaller raptor cousins. Bald and golden eagles pose a significant threat to hawks across North America. (ref)

With their larger size and superior strength, eagles can challenge hawks in mid-air or raid their nests. Bald eagles have been observed engaging red-tailed hawks in aerial duels, often resulting in the hawk’s demise. 

Golden eagles are even more aggressive, actively pursuing adult hawks of various species. These encounters frequently end with the hawk torn apart mid-flight or snatched from its perch.

2. Great Horned Owls

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When darkness falls, hawks face a new danger from the silent wings of great horned owls. These nocturnal hunters are one of the main predators of hawks in North America.

Great horned owls have no qualms about attacking and killing hawks throughout their range. They can take down hawks as small as sharp-shinned hawks and even as large as red-tailed hawks. (ref)

Their nocturnal hunting habits give them a significant advantage, as they can attack sleeping hawks unaware. In some areas, great horned owls are considered the most significant predators of broad-winged hawks and other hawk species.

3. Northern Goshawks

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Sometimes, the greatest threat comes from within one’s own family. The Northern goshawk, a larger and more powerful hawk species, routinely preys on its smaller relatives. (ref)

These formidable predators are known to catch sharp-shinned hawks and even the larger Cooper’s hawks. On rare occasions, they might also target broad-winged hawks. 

Northern goshawks are particularly adept at hunting other raptors, earning them the nickname “the hawk’s hawk.” They threaten adult hawks and frequently prey on nestling hawks and juveniles of other hawk species.

4. Raccoons

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While Raccoons may seem an unlikely predator for hawks, these clever mammals have found a way to turn the tables on these birds of prey. Raccoons are skilled climbers and opportunistic feeders, making hawk nests an attractive target. (ref)

These nocturnal raiders will scale trees to reach hawk nests, particularly when adult hawks are away. They primarily target eggs and nestlings but can also pose a threat to brooding adult hawks caught off guard. 

Raccoons are especially successful at night when hawks are at a visual disadvantage. Their persistence and climbing abilities make them a significant threat to hawk populations, particularly during breeding season.

5. Red Foxes

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Red foxes may be unable to fly, but they’ve developed strategies to make hawks their prey. These adaptable predators primarily target young or inexperienced hawks.

Foxes are excellent hunters, known for their stealth and cunning. They’ll often sneak up on fledgling hawks still learning to fly, taking advantage of their vulnerability. (ref)

Additionally, red foxes will raid low-lying hawk nests when the opportunity presents itself. 

They’re patient hunters, willing to wait for adult hawks to leave the nest before making their move. This ground-based threat adds another layer of danger for hawks, especially during nesting season.

6. Peregrine Falcons

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While not a common occurrence, peregrine falcons have been known to prey on smaller hawk species. These speed demons of the sky can outmaneuver many other birds.

Peregrine falcons are renowned for their incredible diving speed, reaching 240 mph during a hunting stoop. This gives them a significant advantage when targeting other birds, including smaller hawks. (ref)

While they typically prefer prey like pigeons and ducks, peregrine falcons won’t hesitate to attack a hawk if the opportunity arises. Their aerial agility and speed make them formidable opponents, even for the hawk.

7. Snakes

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Snakes pose a significant threat to hawk eggs and nestlings, with some species capable of reaching nests high in trees. Rat snakes, in particular, are adept climbers and nest raiders. (ref)

These reptiles can ascend vegetation to up to 30 feet, putting many hawk nests within reach. Rat snakes target accessible hawk stick nests built 6 to 60 feet off the ground. 

They’re known to consume the broods of various hawk species, including short-tailed hawks in the tropics and red-tailed hawks in temperate zones. A single rat snake can devour up to a dozen eggs from multiple nest raids, seriously threatening hawk populations.

8. Coyotes

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Coyotes are adaptable predators that take advantage of any food source, including hawks, when the opportunity presents itself. While they can’t catch hawks in flight, they pose a threat in certain situations. (ref)

These canines target hawk nests built closer to the ground, raiding them for eggs and nestlings. Coyotes also threaten hawks feeding on carrion or hunting on the ground. 

Their persistence and cleverness allow them to wear down fledgling hawks learning to fly and hunt. Ground-dwelling hawk species like northern harriers are particularly vulnerable to coyote attacks.

9. Bears

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While not typical hawk predators, bears can pose a significant threat, particularly to nesting hawks. Their size and strength make them formidable opponents.

Bears are capable climbers and may raid hawk nests if they discover them. They’re primarily interested in the eggs and nestlings but could catch an adult hawk off guard. 

Black bears, in particular, are known for their climbing abilities and opportunistic feeding habits. (ref) While hawk predation by bears is not common, it represents an unexpected danger for these birds of prey.

10. Wolverines

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In the northern parts of hawk ranges, wolverines present a unique threat. These tenacious predators are known for their strength and fearlessness.

Wolverines are capable climbers and have been observed raiding bird nests, including those of larger birds like hawks. While they primarily scavenge, they won’t hesitate to take on live prey if the opportunity arises. 

Their powerful build and sharp claws make them dangerous opponents, even for adult hawks. Wolverines add another layer of risk for nesting and ground-feeding hawks in areas where their ranges overlap.

Source:

  1. Frontiers
davin
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.