About a year ago I spent some time with this juvenile Red-tailed Hawk as it honed its hunting skills. It wasn’t yet a very good hunter but it sure tried hard. It typically perched on top of some rocky outcrops as it scanned the grassy slopes below for voles. Then it would swoop down and make its attempt, though it seldom caught anything that I was aware of. Learning to hunt isn’t easy and the price to pay for mediocrity is a dear one.
1/2000, f/8, ISO 500, 500 f/4, 1.4 tc, natural light, not baited, set up or called in
Usually the hawk would swoop down to my left where the largest area of vole habitat was but this time it came directly toward me. It simply spread its wings and glided steeply down from its lofty perch.
The hawk doesn’t stand out particularly well against the rocky cliff but I like those rocks as a slightly unusual background. I’m quite surprised that I was able to keep focus locked on the hawk as long as I did with the background so close to the bird.
The intensity of the gaze of a hunting raptor as it closes in on prey always impresses me.
Ron
Note: I’m delighted to be “on the road” again – it’s been a very long time between camping trips! As per usual I won’t be able to respond to comments for a few days (extremely spotty phone signal and no computer) but I do get your comments via email on my phone and enjoy them very much. Hope to have some interesting shots to share when we get back!
The amazing hunting skills of the survivors tends to make one forget that there is a learning curve involved. Great job keeping the bird in focus against that BG. Were you in spot focus mode?
Yes, Dave, that.was my only chance.
I like this bird with the rocks behind it-great intensity.
I think this is my all time favorite of yours of red-tail hawks! It is breathtaking!
Survival (or not) is a wonderful concentration aid. Stunning image of an equally stunning bird. Thank you. And have a wonderful trip away…
Survival (or not) is a wonderful concentration aid.
I could not find the “like” button, so I added this reply.
Beautiful.
Very nice shot and a great job in focussing it against this background ! Enjoy your trip ! Hans
The intensity of the gaze is one of the things I enjoy most about raptor photos. This photo is just gorgeous.
Wonderful Ron!
Charlotte
The beauty of this shot is awesome! You are so sadly right about the high price of failure…tragically, so many young hawks don’t make it because of many factors, including inexperience as hunters…then they starve. Nature is amazing and beautiful…but harsh. Have a great trip.
Awesome as always Ron!
He does have a wide tail fan. I also like the background, and the leg and talons against the tail. It is a high price to pay if you don’t learn quickly!
Hi Ron
That’s a real kickin’ action shot, that really packs a punch. Very impressive!
Cheers
Paul