Staring Swainson’s Hawk – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/640, ISO 400, -0.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
Yesterday morning I photographed this Swainson’s Hawk while it perched on a fence post in northern Utah, it was bright and sunny and the sagebrush and greasewood behind the hawk provided a lovely green background which contrasted nicely from the warm tones of the bird’s plumage. As I photographed the Swainson’s Hawk it looked around, preened, and roused.
When I took this image the hawk was staring at me while I photographed it from across the road. It wasn’t until I came home and viewed the photos I took of it that I had to chuckle a bit at the looks I was getting from the hawk.
Glaring Swainson’s Hawk – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/640, ISO 400, -0.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
Why? Well, the staring, glaring looks of the hawk reminded me of one of my sons (who shall remain unnamed) used to give me in his teens when I’d say something he disagreed with. Normally I try not to anthropomorphize or assign human attributes to my subjects but sometimes I can’t help myself.
I took a wonderful series of images of this Swainson’s Hawk yesterday.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Swainson’s Hawk photos plus facts and information about this species.
The intensity of the hawks stare is incredible. Great pic Mia.
A cat can look at a king…
Great capture!
I hear a string of bad words in that look 🙂
In spite of the Devil’s wire, I really like both images…especially the second. I think it might be a very good thing you can’t read that bird’s mind! The colors of background and even the rusty wire, complement the colors of the bird. The background provides a nice, soft contrast. I always like seeing weathered wood, so appreciate the beauty if the slanted post.
I think the Swainson’s Hawk had some choice words for you by the look. Great photos.
LOL! Stunning images!