Raptor nesting next to the DVP

[Saracen]

I saw a big bird of prey today swooping into a nest along the wooded area next to the DVP just north of the Bloor overpass on the east side. I was in the car going north so I couldn't identify the bird but it was big and dark brown. It may be visible from the very end of Eastmount Ave or another street that abuts the top of the slope looking over the DVP. I may go back for a better look this week!

[yep]

I often see Red-tailed Hawks around there.  In fact, I saw two in a tree where Rosedale Valley Rd. meets the Bayview Extension just a few weeks ago.  It's possible it could be the very same birds.

[Rotarran]

I see quite a few RTH's as well patrolling the highways.  I think they use the highway as a trap of sorts.  Highways present huge obstacles for birds like pigeons to cross so they often have to fly fairly high and without the shelter of trees of bushes for close cover.  They're quite vulnerable when they attempt to cross and the RTH probably finds them easy prey.  A new way of hunting.

[mr.sharp-photo]

yesterday morning, at 7:30 AM, i saw what were likely a pair of RTH doing the talon-locked mating dance on the DVP and Lawrence area. while fluttering in the air, a jerk RWBB tried to peck them. saw that they landed side by side in a tree next to the highway.