Four years ago today, I found this gorgeous dark morph Ferruginous Hawk perched on a juniper fence post in the West Desert. I spotted it from about a mile away.
Perched dark morph Ferruginous Hawk – Nikon D500, f6.3, 1/4000, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
When I was rescuing images from a failing hard drive a few days ago, I came across these photos. I hadn’t shared any images of this hawk from that morning and thought today would be a great time to do so.
That November, I was grateful for my sharp eyesight as it enabled me to spot this bird three times on different days from very long distances. After pointing out the hawk, I remember holding my breath each time, hoping it wouldn’t fly away before I could get close enough to photograph the dark, stunning raptor.
In the interest of full disclosure, I did remove the top of a white metal fence post from the lower right corner of this image because it was bright and distracting.
Lifting off dark morph Ferruginous Hawk – Nikon D500, f6.3, 1/2000, ISO 500, +1.0 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
Fortunately, the large hawk waited to lift off from the juniper fence post until after I took a few images of it perched. The background may look like the sky with clouds, but it is actually Stansbury Island in the distance.
What I liked about this photo was how it showed the strength and power behind this buteo lifting off and taking to the air.
Dark morph Ferruginous Hawk in flight over the West Desert – Nikon D500, f6.3, 1/2000, ISO 500, +1.0 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
After the Ferruginous Hawk took flight, I was able to take more photos of it as it flew over the foothills. When the large bird of prey was out of my line of sight, I was thrilled that I had been able to take these images.
This morning there is actually snow on the ground for the first time of the winter! It is not much but I am happy to see it!
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Ferruginous Hawk photos plus facts and information about this species.
I agree with EC. Your eyesight is incredible. These action shots speak for themselves. Thanks Mia.
Beautiful dark color bird. I am sorry both you an Ron are having computer problems. It must be keeping you both very busy. At least the weather is stay home type weather for awhile.
Stunning. I do envy your eyesight.
I’m sorry your hard drive failed, but so glad you were able to rescue these shots — and I’m sure many equally wonderful ones! Beautiful buteo! Dark morphs are really something. I especially like the liftoff shot still showing his push-off stance as well as the curved leading edges of his wings to get lift. (I call them “Bernouli wings.” 😉😂)