Hawks & Eagles in United Kingdom
10 species matching this filter.
The United Kingdom is home to 10 species of hawks and eagles, ranging from the widespread Buzzard soaring over farmland and moorland to the magnificent White-tailed Sea-eagle patrolling the Scottish coastline. Conservation success stories such as the reintroduction of the Red Kite and the return of the White-tailed Sea-eagle highlight the country's commitment to raptor recovery. From the elusive Northern Goshawk in dense woodland to the graceful Hen Harrier on upland moors, these birds of prey can be found across a rich variety of British habitats.
Buzzard
Buteo buteoLC
A widespread resident raptor, commonly seen soaring over farmland, woodland edges and motorway verges. Has recovered strongly across England.
Year-round
European Honey-buzzard
Pernis apivorusLC
A scarce summer breeder in mature broadleaved woodlands, feeding largely on wasp and bee larvae. Secretive and easily overlooked during its brief stay.
May–Sep
Hen Harrier
Circus cyaneusLC
An uncommon resident of upland moorlands, heavily persecuted on some grouse moors. Winters more widely on lowland marshes and farmland.
Year-round
Montagu's Harrier
Circus pygargusLC
A rare summer visitor and passage migrant, with very few breeding pairs remaining in southern England. Favours open arable farmland and marshes.
May–Aug
Northern Goshawk
Accipiter gentilisLC
A rare but increasing resident of mature forests and plantations. Secretive and elusive, most often encountered in large woodlands across Wales and northern England.
Year-round
Red Kite
Milvus milvusLC
A conservation success story, now widespread after near-extinction in the UK. Soars gracefully over Welsh valleys, the Chilterns and increasingly across England.
Year-round
Rough-legged Hawk
Buteo lagopusLC
A rare winter visitor, mainly to eastern England's coastal marshes and farmland. Often hovers while hunting, unlike the resident Common Buzzard.
Oct–Feb
Sparrowhawk
Accipiter nisusLC
A common resident raptor found in woodland, farmland, and gardens. Often seen dashing along hedgerows in pursuit of small birds.
Year-round
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Western Marsh-harrier
Circus aeruginosusLC
A conservation success story, now commonly seen quartering over reedbeds and marshes, especially in East Anglia where it has spread steadily.
Year-round
White-tailed Sea-eagle
Haliaeetus albicillaLC
Successfully reintroduced to Scotland and now spreading to England. This massive raptor hunts over sea lochs, coasts and large lakes.
Year-round