It was our local naturalist who spotted this beautiful young hawk first, when he flew right in over our heads. She was quite sure it was a juvenile Cooper’s Hawk, and I thought so, too. See what you think when you view the photos of the Immature Cooper’s Hawks at All About Birds Cooper Hawk ID
Because Cooper’s Hawks are often confused with Sharp-shinned Hawks, Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Project Feeder Watch also has a great tool for comparing the two. Another excellent resource for identifying this as a young Cooper’s Hawk is this ID Tip on Audubon.
If anyone has a different, better ID, I’d love to know!
Birder's Journey 
Coopers versus sharpie is always soooo tough. Good for you for making the call!
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I think we’re much less likely to see a Sharp-shinned here, and Coopers are seen fairly often. Thanks, Amy!
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How wonderful that he/she flew so close in. They’re flying abilities within the woods is truly impressive. Wonderful, BJ.
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Exactly, Jet! We scarcely noticed him fly in right overhead, and when he flew off, he zipped out of sight just as quickly through a thickly wooded stand.
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He is quite a handsome hawk and your shot is handsome as well, Carol.
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Thanks, Steve. He was a pleasure to look at for quite a few minutes!
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Yes, I think it’s a Cooper’s. Nice photo! There’s a picture on the All About Birds site Of an immature that has similar characteristics. I like using that site’s “compare” feature to look at similar species side by side.
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I do too! One of my favorite and handy features on All About Birds.
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Coopers, but I didn’t think they were in your area.
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Coopers Hawks aren’t nearly as common as our Red-shouldered, but they are one that we see fairly often.
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Beautiful shot, Carol! Happy Halloween! 🎃 🙂
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Thanks so much, HJ!!
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It’s a beauty, and wonderful sighting!
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I felt pretty lucky that my friend pointed it out!
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Wonderful photograph of a young Cooper’s Hawk!
Fantastic raptor of the woods.
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Thanks so much, Wally! It was a wonderful sight!!
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