Well actually, a maple leaf or two, but they did obscure this Red-shouldered Hawk’s belly. I spotted him because of the contrast in color.
He was looking all around as another RSH was calling across the swamp. He was pretty content in his semi-enclosed spot.
It was dark under the canopy of an aged Live Oak tree. The Red-shouldered Hawk didn’t seem to mind as he looked around.
A few long -ago broken off limbs provided a perch with good visibility for the hawk.
Taken May 12, 2019
Sony Alpha 6500 with 55-210 MM lens at 210 MM.
Part of the swamp I visit is dotted with dead trees, victims of time and probably changing water levels.
Red-shouldered Hawks are among the birds that find them to be good perches with little to obstruct their view.
This fellow was hunting for lunch in the water below.
January 22, 2020
Red-shouldered balancing act.
Made it!
Some greenery is starting to sprout but most leaves aren’t out enough to block the view of perched birds. This Red-shouldered Hawk was patiently waiting to spot his next meal in the pond below.
I was hoping to find Wood Ducks in this pond but instead found a Red-shouldered Hawk looking for a meal.
He snatched a snack coated with vegetation out of the water.
Then got his balance.
Then flew to this Wood Duck box with something that might have been a crawfish.
This Red-shouldered Hawk was having a grooming session right out in the open.
The RSHs frequently feed at the edge of the ponds which is probably how he got a wet chest.
It was interesting seeing him from below, which was the only angle I could get.
And his wing spread out.
He was intent on his personal care but I had no doubt he also knew every movement around the pond.
Even though I knew he was nearby I was still startled to see this Red-shouldered Hawk less than 10 feet (3 Meters) in front of me and at eye level.
My third Red-shouldered Hawk sighting on Tuesday’s walk seemed less promising when I first spotted him in the distance.
I was on my way out and the path I was on crossed under his perch.
I got a close up view and then surprise!
I was focused on the hawk when he took off without warning and was pleased with getting a lift off sequence.
My second Red-shouldered Hawk sighting on Tuesday’s walk was further off the path, but with no leaves on the trees I had a clear view.
This hawk was looking more put together than the bedraggled one from Sighting 1 and notice his tail is held tightly together.
The hawk was watching all around him, but with one foot up was pretty relaxed.
