Swainson's Hawk juvenileJuvenile Swainson’s Hawk – Nikon D300, f8, 1/1000, ISO 400, Nikkor 200-400mm VR with 1.4x TC at 400mm, natural light, not baited

Not only did I see numerous Red-tailed Hawk juveniles on my recent trip to Montana I also saw quite a few Swainson’s Hawk (Buteo swainsoni) juveniles too. This is one of them that I found in Beaverhead County. Swainson’s juveniles have beautiful patterns on their backs and chests. According to the big Sibley’s Guide to Birds this is an intermediate juvenile.

The young Swainson’s Hawk was cooperative and it had a sibling that was on the other side of the road on a power pole with one of the adult birds. The fence was next to a wet meadow where water had pooled in some areas.

It is a gorgeous bird now and will grow up to be a very handsome adult.

Life is good.

Mia

Click here to see more of my Swainson’s Hawk photos plus facts and information about this species.