Cooper's Hawk perched on an old fence post, Wasatch Mountains, Summit County, UtahCooper’s Hawk perched on an old fence post – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1250, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited

There are days when one bird can “make” the day great for me as a bird photographer, yesterday that bird was a Cooper’s Hawk in a Wasatch Mountain canyon east of Salt Lake City. The rest of the morning was pretty much a bust bird wise so I am grateful for the few seconds I had with this hawk.

For various reasons I very rarely have opportunities with accipiters so when I do I like to take full advantage of my time with them. When this Cooper’s Hawk landed on the gnarly old fence post in morning light I was delighted, the hawk was busy looking around and I could hear little birds and ground squirrels calling out in alarm. I knew that the hawk could take off any second so I fired several bursts as it perched on the post.

Staring Cooper's Hawk, Wasatch Mountains, Summit County, UtahStaring Cooper’s Hawk – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1250, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited

Unfortunately I missed the take off shot that happened right after I took this photo but I’m happy for the few seconds I had with this hawk. I looked for it on my way out of the canyon but it must have decided to hunt for breakfast somewhere else. At any rate a Cooper’s Hawk in the Wasatch Mountains was a true delight for me and saved the day.

Life is good.

Mia

Click here to see more of my Cooper’s Hawk photos plus facts and information about this species.