The Raptors That Live Next Door

A pair of Red-shouldered Hawks have taken up residence in my neighborhood and it is nesting season. I managed to get a few shots of the female from my film camera. I think it's the female because according to my field guide, the females are larger and I've seen them together. In fact I observed them mating at this perch, but unfortunately I didn't get the avian porn on film.

This is an Oregon Junco.

Goldfinch

Violets, my favorite flower.

From this perch on another day she swooped down and grabbed a quick snack of meadow vole. My ability to shoot wildlife is limited because these birds sit (oh yeah, it's the birds' fault, heh, heh) and stare at the field for a long time and I could never tell when they would take off. I do know when they are near because they have a distinctive cry. Normally shy, the Red-shouldered Hawk isn't usually seen around where people frequent the way the Red-tail Hawks are. I've seen Red-tail Hawks take Mourning Doves right out of my backyard. Maybe this mom-to-be is checking out the availability of easy meals. OMG, Mia only weighs six and a half pounds!