Rough-legged Hawk perched on a parking sign – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1250, ISO 500, +0.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
It is currently the time of the year when I start looking for Rough-legged Hawks in northern Utah, the temps have dipped below freezing, there has been frost on the ground and now we’ve had our first snow. These arctic breeding wanderers have shown up in states north of here and I am hoping to have my first of the season sighting soon.
I am looking for them on the wing either in flight or hovering while they hunt for prey. I’m searching to find one perched on a sign. Of all of the birds of prey that I photograph Rough-legged Hawks are the raptors I find on signs and sign posts the most frequently.
Rough-legged Hawk perched on sagebrush with Great Salt Lake in the background – Nikon D300, f6.3, 1/1600, ISO 500, +0.3 EV, Nikkor 200-400mm VR with 1.4x TC at 400mm, natural light, not baited
I’m scanning the tops of trees and bushes for their familiar shapes. Rough-legged Hawks will often perch on spindly branches that other raptors aren’t comfortable perching on.
Male Rough-legged Hawk on a broken stump – Nikon D810, f9, 1/400, ISO 250,Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
I also look for them on the ground or perches that are close to the ground, on cliff faces and at the tops of rocks. Honestly, at this time of the year my eyes are constantly on the look out for Rough-legged Hawks. I know I will feel my pulse quicken when I spot my first of season Rough-legged Hawk and I probably won’t be able to contain myself and will shout out “Roughy” whether I am by myself or with company. That is simply how excited I get when I see these birds for the first time of the year.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to view more of my Rough-legged Hawk photos plus facts and information about this species.
Do you sell your photos like a immature Prairie Falcon, My wife have several that roost in our tree tops every year.
I hope you find them soon – and delight those of us without Roughies in our world.
I enjoyed these shots, especially the last one. I find it very interesting to watch “Roughies’ hunt. You mentioned the weather; yes, I finally buckled down and got my winter coat out as the lighter wear was no longer keeping me warm.
Well, the sign did say “parking area,” so he “parked!” 😉 Looking forward to this season’s Roughie shots — with or without pantaloons/britches. 🙂
Wow, they are quite long-lived. I don’t know that I have ever seen a Rough-legged Hawk. Gorgeous bird, gorgeous shots.