Category: hawks

Red-Tailed Hawk on the Hudson

I stopped on a dark day after work to see the osprey, but only saw this red-tailed hawk up close instead. I have been to this location several times, but it was the first time I saw a red-tailed hawk there.

Red-Tailed Hawk on the Hudson

This park borders a large piece of private property that includes a field and a lot of woods, so this hawk has a variety of spots to chose from. I am guessing it does not go to the shoreline as much.

It was scanning the shoreline of the Hudson River under the tree it was perched on and watching the kingfishers and other birds pass by.

Red-Tailed Hawk on the Hudson

After it fanned out it’s wing feathers it flew off right over my head. I did not take pictures of its flight as I was sure I did not have the shutter speed high enough. It appeared to possibly land and catch something in a grassy area behind me. It was not my anticipated subject, but good to see all the same. Have a great weekend!

Female Northern Harrier

Northern Harriers are one type of hawk native to North America. It is one hawk I mainly see in winter.

Female Northern Harrier

Food

Northern harriers hunt small mammals and birds. They can get rabbits and ducks. During winter, when I see them, they mainly go after voles and mice. This one is carrying grass, but I am not sure if there is a vole or mouse amongst it.

Female Northern Harrier

Hunting behaviour

I have found these birds in grasslands where they fly quite low going often between the grasses. Harriers hunt during the daytime. They can also hover then dive while hunting. Harriers rely on hearing and sight to capture their prey. I have seen them chase after and steal a vole from a short-eared owl in late afternoon.

Nesting Behaviour

Northern harriers will roost in groups on the ground, sometimes with Short-Eared Owls, according to All About Birds. Because they roost on the ground, animals such as coyotes and feral dogs will go after adult northern harriers.

Female Northern Harrier

These are fascinating birds to watch. I love seeing them hover and chase after the short-eared owls. Have a great Wednesday!

Red-Shouldered Hawk

I saw this while driving. I took the picture from a distance on the side of a road. This bird was in the woods and seemed to stay within it. I believe it is a red-shouldered hawk.

Red-Shouldered Hawk -This one I added colour to.
Red-Shouldered Hawk- This one I did not add colour.

I had one person look at the back of the camera and he thought that is what it was. Also, that is the first choice the Merlin App gives for it. The second choice was a broad-winged hawk. The lighting was not great and it was taken from quite a distance. The photo is also heavily cropped and lightened. The colours may not be totally accurate. It appears to be an immature. Enjoy the rest of your weekend!