Outdoor Ontario

Birding Reports => Backyard Birding => Topic started by: BMShewchuk on January 01, 2017, 08:15:32 AM

Title: Hawk! quiet day at the feeders
Post by: BMShewchuk on January 01, 2017, 08:15:32 AM

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Title: Re: Hawk! quiet day at the feeders
Post by: cairnstone on January 02, 2017, 01:54:18 PM

If your hawk hung around a long time on the same perch chances are it recently ate. In my experience with hawks that prey on feeder birds, those that seem lethargic and in no hurry to go anywhere are likely well fed. If they are hungry they are alert and edgy and won't remain still very long. I've experienced a few Cooper's and Sharp-shinned hawks that are very approachable and seemed bored by my presence when normally they would nervously flee before you got anywhere near them. If you get a good enough photo of abnormally lethargic hawks, examine their feet, talons, bellies and beaks and you'll often find traces of fresh blood meaning they just chowed down.