Last month while I wandered in the West Desert I found an immature Red-tailed Hawk perched on a wooden fence post in the foothills of some sky island mountains.
Young Red-tailed Hawk looking over West Desert foothills – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1250, ISO 400, +1.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
Typically I prefer something in the background of my subjects other than plain blue sky. That morning the sky was clear and a lovely blue. I was happy with the background, the weathered perch and the regal pose of the young raptor.
Immature Red-tailed Hawk soaking up morning warmth – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1000, ISO 400, +1.7 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
As I recall it was already hot by the time I spotted this young Red-tailed Hawk. It was nearly 10 a.m. in the morning. I thought it might have dropped its wings because of the heat. I know I was already hot and wishing that I felt cooler. Less dusty too.
Young Red-tailed Hawk preening a single feather – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/800, ISO 400, +2.0 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
The immature hawk was simply getting ready to preen its feathers and I was ready to photograph it preening. I selected this photo to share because I liked the look at the eye of the hawk. The young raptor grasping just one feather in its hooked bill was the sprinkles on my cupcake.
Bonus immature Red-tailed Hawk photo:
Immature Red-tailed Hawk in a sunlit juniper – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/640, ISO 640, +1.0 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
Much earlier in the morning I took photos of another young Red-tailed Hawk on my way up the foothills. The light was beautiful and I couldn’t and didn’t want to resist taking images of the young buteo. I’m delighted that I listened to my instincts.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Red-tailed Hawk photos plus facts and information about this species.
Great pics. Stately…always alert. Red-tailed hawks always remind me of what it is to be wild and free and beautiful. The eye contact you captured is absolutely wonderful. Thanks Mia.
Nice series. I like the blue sky as the background. You can really see the details of the hawks feathers. The perch is just the right touch.
Majestic – and marvellous.
Handsome at any age.
Superb photography, as expected.
Thank you for sharing.
Beautiful birds! I like the preening shot too.
Nice example of soft and strong light and the benefit of a little greenery. Thank you
Great series. I really enjoy seeing that look in its eye. Thx!