Hawks & Eagles in Durham
5 species matching this filter.
Durham's varied landscape of upland moors, river valleys, and open farmland provides excellent habitat for hawks and eagles, with 5 species recorded across the county. Notable residents include the Sparrowhawk and Buzzard, both commonly seen soaring over woodland edges, while the striking Red Kite has become an increasingly familiar sight following successful reintroduction programmes. Rarer visitors such as the Hen Harrier and Western Marsh-harrier can be spotted during migration or on the county's wilder moorland and wetland areas.
Buzzard
Buteo buteoLC
An uncommon year-round resident, often seen soaring over farmland and woodland. Numbers have increased significantly in recent decades.
Year-round
Hen Harrier
Circus cyaneusLC
A rare passage visitor in late summer, occasionally seen quartering over moorland and coastal fields in August and September.
Aug–Sep
Red Kite
Milvus milvusLC
A rare but increasingly seen resident, soaring over farmland and woodland edges. Durham lies at the edge of its expanding range.
Feb–Dec
Sparrowhawk
Accipiter nisusLC
An uncommon year-round resident of woodlands and gardens. Dashes through hedgerows and along garden fences in pursuit of small birds.
Year-round
Western Marsh-harrier
Circus aeruginosusLC
A rare but increasingly recorded resident, favouring reedbeds and wetland margins. Durham sightings reflect a wider national recovery.
Jun–Mar