Monday, February 09, 2009

Another Garden Visitor

But not one I particularly want hanging around. I was taking a picture through the window in the door of a couple of jays on one of the feeders. All of a sudden they let out a screech and flew off along with some small birds on the ground. I thought it strange but on taking the camera away from my face, I saw a larger bird on the ground. Thinking it was a grouse I threw my coat and boots on and went out figuring I could get quite close as you can almost pick them up they are so friendly. The chickens were out and fairly close to this bird. I started walking towards it and saw that it was a Hawk. It flew up in a tree as I got closer so I only managed one half way decent shot of the bird. Absolutely gorgeous! It hung around for quite some time so I had to get the chickens into their greenhouse area by coaxing them with treats. It eventually flew off to some trees across the road. I have to say that it was one beautiful flyer. I've looked up my bird books and the best I can come up with is that it's maybe a Sharp Shinned Hawk. If anyone knows for sure, please let me know.

7 comments:

flydragon said...

That's a great shot of the hawk. I have such a hard time trying to get a picture of my "Harry" that hangs around my house. Can't help with the identification though. I don't know one from another.

Cicero Sings said...

Doesn't look like any pictures I have in my book so can't help with the ID ... but a great picture!

Tricia Ryder said...

WOW What a beautiful bird that is. And great that you were able to grab the camera and get a picture before it left you.

Glad the chickens are safe! :D

Stewart said...

Yes OC, you are right, and its a male. Your chickens are too large for it, but your Junco's better watch out...they are designed for catching small birds in flight, usually by suprise in cover.

oldcrow61 said...

Thanks Stewart. I also sent the picture to a friend who sent it on to someone he knows who's also knowledgeable about these things and he confirmed it as well.

Anonymous said...

You lucky thing, isn't it a beautiful creature?

Anonymous said...

Lock up your chickens! :)

Ali