Male Swainson's Hawk landing with talons reaching outMale Swainson’s Hawk landing with talons reaching out – Nikon D810, f7.1, 1/2000, ISO 400, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited

Five days ago I photographed this male Swainson’s Hawk landing with his talons reaching out for the lichen covered rocks he was going to perch on. I love the setting even though the background is a bit messy with the out of focus sagebrush because of the lichen on the rocks and the spiky grasses growing there.

While I that wish the hawk was facing a bit more towards me I appreciate the intense look of concentration he appears to have in his eye. And I don’t think I have ever seen the feathers on a Swainson’s legs look so much like bloomers in my life!

Life is good.

Mia

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