18 Birds That Eat Squirrels (with Photos, ID & Info)

Welcome to a fascinating exploration of nature’s diverse predators. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll introduce you to 18 birds that eat squirrels. These feathered hunters showcase nature’s intricacies in the world of predation.

Types of Birds That Eat Squirrels

Bald Eagle

The Bald Eagle’s range extends from the Arctic Circle in the north to southern Florida in the south, and from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west. They are found throughout most of North America except for Alaska and Greenland.

The main habitat is open country with plenty of large trees, but they also inhabit airports, golf courses, and cities. The diet consists mostly of small mammals such as squirrels, but they will also eat fish, carrion, and insects.

Golden Eagle

The majestic Golden Eagle, a formidable raptor, graces various corners of the world. Its native domain encompasses North America, where it soars over much of the western United States and extends its dominion into parts of Canada.

As a discerning predator, the golden eagle predominantly preys on small creatures, with squirrels among its favored morsels. However, it also demonstrates its versatility by scavenging and consuming carrion when the need arises.

Cooper’s Hawk

The Cooper’s hawk (Accipiter cooperii) is a medium-sized raptor found in North America. The Cooper’s hawk ranges from the Southeast United States, through much of central and northern Mexico, south to central Brazil, and northeastern Argentina.

They inhabit open country with plenty of trees for soaring and hunting. They feed primarily on small mammals such as squirrels, but may also take birds, rabbits, and even large snakes.

Northern Goshawk

The Northern Goshawk is a medium-sized hawk found throughout North America. These birds mainly feed on small mammals, but have been known to take prey as large as rabbits and squirrels.

They typically hunt in open areas, but will also take advantage of concealment provided by trees or other structures.

American Kestrel

The American Kestrel is a small, soaring bird of prey that ranges across much of North America. The main habitat for these birds consists of open rural areas with lots of trees and shrubs, but they are also found in suburban and urban areas.

The American Kestrel feeds on small rodents, such as voles and mice, but they will also feed on birds, reptiles, and insects.

Northern Harrier

The Northern Harrier is a small, but powerful bird of prey that can be found in the northern hemisphere. It is a medium-sized raptor that typically weighs almost two pounds and has a wingspan of around seven feet.

The Northern Harrier mainly feeds on rodents such as squirrels, but will also take small birds and even small mammals as prey.

Red-shouldered Hawk

Red-shouldered Hawks are a medium-sized hawk found in the eastern and central United States. They have a range that includes most of the East Coast, as well as the Midwest and portions of the West Coast.

They prefer forests, with an occasional occurrence in open country, but are also common in suburban areas. The main diet of Red-shouldered Hawks is small rodents, such as squirrels, although they will also consume birds, eggs, and carrion.

Rough-legged Hawk

The Rough-legged Hawks’ range extends from the Rocky Mountains of Colorado and Wyoming to the Appalachian Mountains in southern New England and eastern North Carolina.

They prefer habitats with dense trees and open country, but can be found anywhere there are sufficient prey items. The Rough-legged Hawks are mostly insectivorous, but will also consume small animals, such as squirrels.

Red-tailed Hawk

The Red-tailed hawk is a medium-sized bird that ranges throughout North America. This hawk is commonly found in open forests, plains, and meadows, but has also been known to inhabit urban areas.

The red-tailed hawk is a scavenger and typically feeds on small mammals, such as rodents and rabbits. While it does feed on squirrels on occasion, the main prey of this raptor is typically smaller birds.

Sharp-shinned Hawk

The Sharp-shinned Hawks are a medium-sized hawk found in North America. They have a range that extends from Alaska to Mexico, and they can be found in most of the continental United States.

The Sharp-shinned Hawks are mainly found in open habitats, such as prairies, steppes, and woodlands. They feed on small mammals, such as squirrels, but they will also eat birds and other small animals.

Great Horned Owl

The Great Horned Owl is the largest owls that can be found in North America. It has a range that extends from the central United States to the Northernmost parts of Canada, and it can be found in most of the Eastern half of the continent.

The Great Horned Owl is mainly a nocturnal bird, but it will also forage during the day. It feeds primarily on small mammals such as squirrels, but it will also eat birds and other animals.

Great Gray Owl

The Great Gray Owl is a large owl found in North America. The Great Gray Owl’s range includes most of North America, but they are not found in the southern tip of South America.

They can be found in open woodlands, forests, and prairies. The Great Gray Owl feeds on small mammals, such as squirrels, but they also eat insects, birds, and other creatures.

Snowy Owl

The Snowy Owl is a large owl native to the coldest regions of North America. The Snowy Owl’s range extends from the Yukon Territory in the north to southernmost Florida in the south, and from the Arctic tundra in the north to central Mexico.

The diet of the Snowy Owl includes many different types of animals, but its main prey items are lemmings, voles, squirrels and rabbits.

Short-eared Owl

The Short-eared Owl’s range covers most of North America, including much of Canada and the United States, and parts of South America. They are mainly found in the northern regions, but have been known to make appearances in the southern states.

The Short-eared Owl’s diet consists mainly of small rodents like squirrels, but they have been known to feed on birds, snakes, and other small animals.

Common Raven

Ravens are a large group of passerine birds. They are the only species in the family Corvidae. Ravens are found throughout the Americas, Europe, and Asia.

They are omnivores and feed on a wide variety of prey, including small animals, carrion, and insects. Ravens commonly feed on squirrels, but they also eat other mammals, reptiles, and birds.

American Crow

The American Crow range extends from the eastern seaboard of North America to the western slopes of the Andes Mountains in South America. Their main habitat is open areas such as grasslands, marshes, and forests.

They are omnivorous and feed on a variety of food sources, including small animals, carrion, and insects. The crows are considered to be scavengers and will feed on squirrels and other small rodents if available.

Gyrfalcon

Gyrfalcons are a medium to large falcon found in North America. They have a wide range and can be found in most of the lower 48 states. They are mainly found in open areas such as plains, deserts, and mountains.

Gyrfalcons mainly feed on small mammals such as squirrels, but can also consume other birds, small reptiles, and amphibians.

Peregrine Falcon

The Peregrine Falcon boasts a vast range that spans from the Arctic tundra to tropical regions, making it a widespread presence across North America. These migratory birds predominantly inhabit open areas punctuated by an abundance of trees, frequently favoring sites such as cliffs, towers, and even skyscrapers.

Their diet primarily consists of small prey, including birds and rodents, but they are not averse to capturing larger animals when the opportunity arises. Renowned for their incredible speed, Peregrine Falcons are adept at seizing distant prey with remarkable swiftness.

Conclusion

As we conclude this captivating journey through the avian world of squirrel hunters, we hope you’ve gained a newfound appreciation for the diversity of nature’s strategies. From the iconic bald eagle to the agile peregrine falcon, these birds exemplify nature’s remarkable ability to adapt and thrive in different environments.

Remember, the circle of life is a complex and fascinating phenomenon, with each species playing its unique role. The next time you spot one of these birds in the wild, you’ll see them with a deeper understanding of their hunting prowess.