It makes me Raptor-ous!

[zoethe]

Coming home from the bus stop today, I noted that the birds were extra-raucous on our street. Then two houses away from our home I came to a dead stop. There on the lawn under our tree stood a large hawk. I could hardly believe my eyes! After a minute or so, she flew off, limp remains of a rabbit in her talons. She only flew down the block about four houses, and landed in the top of the wine-leafed sycamore there. An hour or two later, the birds were still frantic.

I can only hope she did a little survey of this neighborhood and decided it was a veritable McDonalds, so is nesting in the top of the tree. The wild rabbit population is completely out of control here, and I'd love to see a little natural pest control move into the neighborhood.

I've decided to nickname her Orkin, if she stays.

Comments

Bird Nerd

[sonofthelama.livejournal.com]

That is really awesome!
Do you have any idea what kind of hawk? Did you notice any stripes on the tail or distinct markings on her chest? (pure white or perhaps a 'band' of darker feathers)

Food is a pretty signifigant motivator in their choice to stay or go. Although it sounds like that "extra-raucous" behavior is going to turn to mobbing soon.

Re: Bird Nerd

[zoethe.livejournal.com]

Alas, it was too much in silouhette for me to tell. I am a a very rusty birder, so believe me I will be keeping a look-out.

West Nile Virus has killed off so many of our raptors. I can only hope they are turning the corner on it, developing some immunities.

Re: Bird Nerd

[sydneyrodriguez.livejournal.com]

I guess they could make use of a couple Peregrin Falcons, then, huh?

Re: Bird Nerd

[zoethe.livejournal.com]

The more the merrier, as far as I'm concerned. Saw a peregrine a mile or so away the other day. Good to see raptors in the area.