Based on 7,735 research-grade iNaturalist observations in Illinois, Red-tailed Hawk is most often recorded in February; in Illinois it behaves like a year-round resident. It ranks #10 among birds recorded in the state in our data.
Buteo jamaicensis
Red-tailed Hawk in Illinois by month
Bars show research-grade observations per month. They mix true seasonality with how often people are outdoors, so treat small numbers with caution.
Also seen in Illinois in February
Canada Goose
Northern Cardinal
American Herring Gull
Dark-eyed Junco
House Sparrow
Mallard
Common Goldeneye
Downy Woodpecker
Places to look in Illinois
State ParkCahokia
Botanical GardenMorton Arboretum
National ForestShawnee National Forest
Botanical GardenChicago Botanic Garden
Botanical GardenLadd Arboretum
State ParkStarved Rock State Park
FAQ
When does Red-tailed Hawk appear in Illinois?
Mainly January–December, with the most records in February.
How common is Red-tailed Hawk in Illinois?
It ranks #10 by number of iNaturalist observations among birds in Illinois (7,735 records in our sample).