Juvenile Swainson's Hawk on a bale of hayJuvenile Swainson’s Hawk on a bale of hay – Nikon D810, f6.3, 1/80, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light not baited

I created this juvenile Swainson’s Hawk image two days ago before the sun rose over the mountains on my way in to Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge and I liked how it turned out despite the low light. The top of the hay bale almost looks frosty but it has been bleached by the sun so I think it contrasts nicely with the dark plumage of the immature hawk.

Our Swainson’s Hawks will soon be migrating for the winter and I hope that this young hawk will be strong enough to make the journey to South America so it can return to Utah again next spring.

Life is good.

Mia

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