Male 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.
Very Nice !!
I became aware of bird britches some time ago – and love these.
Love it — I assume this was in Box Elder county, probably Antelope Island?
Utahbooklover, no, this was north of Antelope Island. I haven’t seen but one or two Swainson’s Hawks on the island this year.
Exquisite
This is my new favorite Mia photo. The colors, the light, the moment caught – fabulous.
This has got to be one of the best “coming in for a landing” shots I’ve ever jseen…love the detail, the bird’s intensity of focus…and the background.
I’ve said before that you are your own worst critic. I think the photo is absolutely wonderful. And, yes, the hawk does look like he’s wearing bloomers.
NICE, NICE, NICE….. ;-)))
Superb photo, Mia. Please take a bow.