Hawks & Eagles in Kent
7 species matching this filter.
Kent's diverse landscapes—from the North Downs and Weald woodlands to the expansive marshes of the Thames Estuary and Romney Marsh—provide excellent habitat for seven species of hawks and eagles. The county is home to resident raptors such as the Buzzard and Sparrowhawk, while also hosting seasonal visitors including the Hen Harrier in winter and the European Honey-buzzard in summer. The recovery of species like the Red Kite and Western Marsh-harrier in recent decades has made Kent an increasingly rewarding destination for raptor enthusiasts.
Buzzard
Buteo buteoLC
A common resident soaring over Kent's farmland, woodland edges and downs, having recovered strongly across the county in recent decades.
Year-round
European Honey-buzzard
Pernis apivorusLC
A rare summer passage migrant through Kent from June to August. Favours wooded areas and is most often seen soaring over the North Downs.
Jun–Aug
Hen Harrier
Circus cyaneusLC
An uncommon winter visitor, quartering low over marshes and farmland from October to April. The North Kent Marshes are a key wintering area.
Oct–Apr
Northern Goshawk
Accipiter gentilisLC
A rare passage visitor to Kent, occasionally recorded in late winter. Sightings are increasing as this secretive raptor slowly recolonises southern England.
Feb–Mar
Red Kite
Milvus milvusLC
A rare but increasing year-round resident, now occasionally seen soaring over Kent's countryside. Part of the species' ongoing UK recovery.
Year-round
Sparrowhawk
Accipiter nisusLC
An uncommon but widespread resident, hunting small birds in woodlands, hedgerows and gardens. Often dashes low through Kent's suburban areas.
Year-round
Western Marsh-harrier
Circus aeruginosusLC
A common resident of Kent's extensive reedbeds and marshes, particularly numerous at sites like Stodmarsh and the North Kent Marshes.
Year-round