Perched Red-shouldered Hawk adult – Nikon D200, handheld, f6.3, 1/640, ISO 320, Nikkor 80-400mm VR with 1.4x TC at 400mm, natural light, not baited
Back in early 2009 I was wandering with some friends in a hammock at Myakka River State Park, Florida when we came across this Red-shouldered Hawk. We were looking for a rare Ruff that had been spotted at the park and though we dipped on that rarity we were all pleased to see this adult Red-shouldered Hawk perched above us on a lichen covered branch. The hawk ignored us for a few minutes and then took off for parts unknown.
A few days after I took this Red-shouldered Hawk image I went back to Myakka with a friend and fellow bird photographer and we located the Ruff and even though it was too far away to get high quality images we had a great time wandering around the trails through the woods.
Myakka River State Park is located about 9 miles east of Sarasota and along with the birds that inhabit the park other wildlife including alligators, armadillos, otters, raccoons and wild boars can be seen. The first time I visited the park years and years ago I didn’t have such a great time because I wasn’t with the best of company. Years later when visiting the park on my own and with friends I enjoyed my visits there much more.
Life is good. It is even better when you share it with wonderful companions.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Red-shouldered Hawk photos plus facts and information about this species.
Just beautiful! I love your wonderful photo.
I dig the matching beak and talons. Goes really well with the beautiful feather patterns.
I never get close enough to get any nice clean photos. “sigh”
Just one question, how exactly does one wander in a hammock??? 😉
Just beautiful.
I am sad to hear that yet another magnificent bird is in decline. And blame our species.
You don’t get any more beautiful than this, Mia. Absolutely a gorgeous hawk and photograph. The striped chest, the lichen, his golden talons and beak….wow! Thank you, Mia!
I understand that Red-Shouldered hawks are in decline, too. My daughter has had one in her property but her jerk husband kerps cutting dosn the trees rhat surround them and the hawk and his mate may have moved on. He used to perch on one of their pitdoor chairs and watchbfor chipmunks. I love their stripey tails. This one very proud and precise.
Beautiful image, Mia. The Red Hawk is a favorite. Very common where I used to live in Tn.