Immature Rough-legged Hawk in soft morning light – Nikon D500, f6.3, 1/640, ISO 800, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
Last month while enjoying one of the most relaxing trips I have had to Bear River MBR in a long time I came across this Rough-legged Hawk in soft morning light. The young hawk was perched with its back facing me as the sunlight glistened on the frost that had accumulated on its back and wing feathers during the long, cold winter night.
I was delighted that the immature Rough-legged Hawk gave me great head turns which gave me wonderful views of its head and eyes. The soft, warm light seemed to make the bird glow against the brightly lit marshy background.
I am never in a hurry when I am in the field so I sat with this hawk and savored the view, the sounds, the brisk air on my face and felt deeply connected to the refuge. I felt recharged, invigorated and refreshed which is one of the reasons why I got so involved with bird photography in the first place in addition to my love and passion for birds.
That morning while I was looking at the view in front of me of the marsh, wetlands, wide open bluebird sky and the Promontory Mountains glowing in the distance this young Rough-legged Hawk took flight. I missed those take off shots. I wasn’t even upset that I missed them. I was simply grateful for the moments I shared with this hawk in the soft golden light because it was exactly what I needed.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to view more of my Rough-legged Hawk photos plus facts and information about this species.
This is simply gorgeous. Thank you.
I was immediately drawn to the hawk’s eyes and the serene setting.
Thank you for illustrating this scene of pure contentment — both with your photograph and your prose.
What a lovely experience!