There are a number of Red-shouldered Hawks around the swamps I frequent. I often hear them call, and this day I finally spotted one on an open branch. I thought he was about to fly after displaying the rousing behavior.
Instead he settled in and called some more. I’ve observed Red-shouldered Hawks make a lot of noise like this before when they appear to be hunting, as contrary as it seems. All potential prey should be driven into hiding.
I moved to a vantage point on a perpendicular trail just in time to see him fly off.
He didn’t go far and continued his calling.
Nice Ellen! Immediately before visiting your post I was at a sharp-shinned hawk post with a lovely photo. Perhaps you’d enjoy seeing it at: https://dannybrownphotography.wordpress.com/2018/11/29/sharp-shinned-hawk-blue-springs-creek-conservation-area-crawford-county/
Thanks, Liz. What a gorgeous hawk you shared; the eyes are amazing.
Great shots, Ellen, I think he wanted you to follow him! 😉
Thanks, Donna! Could be, drawing me away from something else.
Smart point!
I’ve had the same curious thought: why do they make such noise sometimes, just flying over a wood? As you said, it seems like that would scare the prey into hiding.
Paz
I expect they know something that we don’t!