While I was up in far northern Utah looking for birds last week, I took quite a few Red-tailed Hawk photos. I shared one image a few days ago and here are a few more.
Adult Red-tailed Hawk perched on a hackberry
I found this adult Red-tailed Hawk perched on a Netleaf Hackberry. I loved the fall colored leaves of the hackberry and the look I appeared to be getting from the raptor.
Adult Red-tailed Hawk perched in autumn sage
When I located this adult Red-tailed Hawk it was close to the edge of the road perched in sage. The drought is really affecting the sage in that area because it looked dry, discolored, and sickly. The hawk still looked great perched on it.
Immature Red-tailed Hawk preparing to lift off
As I wandered, I found several immature Red-tailed Hawks which hopefully means that the Red-tailed Hawks in the area had a successful breeding season. This young buteo was perched on top of a cliff when I spotted it.
Immature Red-tailed Hawk taking off from a cliff
After a minute or two it lifted off and headed to the north. I clipped the bird’s wings when it took to the air and decided I liked this image despite the flaws in it.
Young dark morph Red-tailed Hawk on a cliff
I drove north to look for the young Red-tailed Hawk that had lifted off and found a different immature Red-tailed Hawk perched high on a lichen-covered cliff face. I quickly noted to myself how much darker and chunkier this bird was than the other one I had just photographed.
Young desert dwelling Red-tailed Hawk
The sun was starting to get higher so I started driving towards home. I hadn’t gotten very far when I spotted this young Red-tailed Hawk perched on a rusty metal fence post.
Stony eyed immature Red-tailed Hawk
After taking scores of photos of the immature Red-tailed Hawk I thanked the bird of prey, started my Jeep, and drove the long road back home.
Because of the weather and being under the weather due to getting my Covid booster on Tuesday it has now been eight days since I have been in the field. I’m getting twitchy and I’m having withdrawals. Even though I am not back to 100% I may have to get out into the field today or I will go batty.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Red-tailed Hawk photos plus facts and information about this species.
WOW x 7 = a happy me! I love these magnificent RTH shots! The eye contact you captured is simply incredible. Thanks Mia.
Hi sweetie! What a great group of them! Love them and you !
Majestic and marvellous. The photo with the wings clipped shows just what an immense spread they have. I hope you are back to complete health soon.
The different color phases of this magnificent raptor have been fascinating to observe over the years. It is so thrilling to watch them soar and hunt.
Outstanding photographs.
Hope you’re feeling better.
Stunning photos! Their eyes are so compelling.