Cooper's Hawk
A fast woodland hawk that may appear near a busy feeder, where it should be observed rather than attracted.
By Birdly Yard Editorial TeamReviewed Updated
Local season
Months with a state-level historical signal for this species.
Status
Backyard reports
Look for it
Scan leafy suburbs, parks, woodland edges, and flight paths above trees for a few wingbeats followed by a glide.
Food
Mostly other birds, caught in rapid pursuit through trees and dense vegetation.
Nesting
Natural nesting guidance
Cooper's Hawk habitat
Forest, woodland, parks, mature leafy suburbs, and tree-lined urban areas with prey and nesting trees.
Cooper's Hawk diet and food
Mostly other birds, caught in rapid pursuit through trees and dense vegetation.
Never feed a hawk. If one begins hunting regularly at a feeder, pause feeding for several days so songbirds can disperse.
Cooper's Hawk nesting and breeding
Builds a stick nest high in a tree; males provide much of the food while the female and young are at the nest.
Cooper's Hawk behavior and where to look
An agile aerial hunter that uses cover and short bursts of speed to pursue birds through cluttered canopy.
Photography
Keep a long distance and do not flush a perched bird or approach a possible nest.
What to avoid
Do not use prey bait, playback, or a concentrated bird feeder to bring a hawk close.
Continue exploring
Explore related bird guides
Compare food, habitat and nesting. Local seasonal records vary by species.
