Juvenile Red-tailed Hawk taking off from a conifer – Nikon D500, f8, 1/1000, ISO 400, +1.0 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
I’m not seeing many Ferruginous or Swainson’s Hawks on this trip to Idaho and Montana but I am finding lots of Red-tailed Hawks, some are more than likely residents and some are probably migrating through on their way south for the winter. I’m just glad they are still here and have allowed me many opportunities to photograph them.
Yesterday I photographed this juvenile for quite some time as it perched in a spruce tree next to the road. I was able to fire a burst of shots showing the juvenile Red-tailed Hawk taking off from a conifer and liked the second and third shots in the series the most. This one with the hawk’s wings over its head with its talons still touching the spruce bough and…
Juvenile Red-tailed Hawk immediately after take off – Nikon D500, f8, 1/1000, ISO 400, +1.0 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
This frame that show the juvenile Red-tailed Hawk immediately after take off with its wings spread fully. The young hawk looks so powerful!
I have to say I am thoroughly enjoying the high burst rate of the D500.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Red-tailed Hawk photos plus facts and information about this species.
Love that first shot. Power, grace, style. And britches.
Nice, crisp images! I especially like the first because that “fling” wing position always appeals to me….
Beautiful photos Mia. These birds are truly masters of aerobatics.