Hawks & Eagles in Isle of Wight
7 species matching this filter.
The Isle of Wight supports a fascinating variety of hawks and eagles, with 7 species recorded across the island's diverse mosaic of downland, woodland, and coastal habitats. The Common Buzzard and Sparrowhawk are familiar residents, while rarer visitors such as the White-tailed Sea-eagle and European Honey-buzzard add excitement for keen birdwatchers. The island's position off the south coast of England also makes it a valuable stopover for migrating raptors, including the elegant Western Marsh-harrier and the increasingly widespread Red Kite.
Buzzard
Buteo buteoLC
A common resident, frequently seen soaring over the island's downs and farmland throughout the year.
Year-round
European Honey-buzzard
Pernis apivorusLC
A rare September passage migrant, occasionally drifting over the island's wooded areas during autumn migration.
Sep
Northern Goshawk
Accipiter gentilisLC
A rare winter visitor, very occasionally recorded in the island's larger woodlands during January.
Jan
Red Kite
Milvus milvusLC
A rare passage visitor in spring, occasionally drifting over from the mainland. Sightings are increasing as the UK population recovers.
Feb–Jun
Sparrowhawk
Accipiter nisusLC
A resident raptor found in woodlands and gardens across the island year-round, often seen dashing through hedgerows after small birds.
Year-round
Western Marsh-harrier
Circus aeruginosusLC
An uncommon resident quartering over island reedbeds and marshes year-round, notably at Brading Marshes.
Year-round
White-tailed Sea-eagle
Haliaeetus albicillaLC
Part of the high-profile reintroduction programme; these impressive raptors now roam the island year-round.
Year-round