It’s been about four years since I photographed this rufous Red-tailed Hawk in in a pre-lift off pose way up in northern Utah. This pose can be hard to capture. My timing has to be prefect to get the feet still on the perch and the wings fully extended.
Red-tailed Hawk in pre-lift off position – Nikon D500, f6.3, 1/1600, ISO 640, +0.7 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
I’m not sure why I didn’t share this Red-tailed Hawk photo in the post I had done on the hawk four years ago. I really, really like this image. Some times I get so many wonderful images of my subjects that I don’t share them all and that is probably the case with this sharp-looking buteo.
I decided to share this photo this morning because Red-tailed Hawks are a favorite bird of my oldest son, William. He loves all birds, but this hawk species is special to him. The reason I am sharing this Red-tailed Hawk today is that it is William’s birthday.
William always seemed to be in a lift off pose when he was little, or maybe I should say younger. He walked, no ran, at only nine months old and I swear he hasn’t slowed down since then. Always curious, always on the go, always looking for the next thing or place to explore.
William, you can soar as high as this Red-tailed Hawk! Happy Birthday! I love you.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Red-tailed Hawk photos plus facts and information about this species.
Oh My that is a great picture, and glad you took it Happy Birthday to your son William.
What a fantastic capture! Ones like this I dream of getting . Happy Birthday William! 🎁