Carol DM
I have been watching the pair of bluebirds decide if they want to build in my backyard bluebird house. Sparrows are a deterrent right now but eventually the bluebirds will win. I saw something yesterday for the first time since I started bluebirding many years ago. I see red tailed hawks and kestrels flying all the time in a nearby field. Looking for rodents and other food. But they never come any closer.
Yesterday I looked out and there was what I believe to be an American Kestrel perched on the bluebird house. I panicked. They are beautiful but predators to the bluebirds. And still am not sure if it was the hawk or the kestrel. Either way, it was not a good sign. I could not see him up close to identify his beak, claws and tail. Even though the bluebirds have not made it their home yet, it was a reminder of what I have always read about. The hawks and kestrels both eat birds and the babies. It was huge. And before I could get the camera, he had flown into a nearby tree. This was the best shot I could get. I hope he stays in the field from now on.
©CarolDM2018
I am continuing with the 365 Photos Challenge and I am now on Day 122.
Here’s hoping your bluebirds stay safe!
My favorite bird of all time the red tailed hawk. They prefer mice, but will kill smaller birds. I would be more worried if it were a kestrel.
Yes they are so impressive with their wing span. Just scared me to see it land on the bluebird house!
Maybe you should call him angel and he may just listen.
Not sure if I want to get that close to him!
I love the embedded picture. Sorry about the issue with the cover photo. Seems hit or miss at this point who it impacts.
Thanks Doc, it was a frustrating day. I hope today will be better.
Birds of prey are gorgeous, but I hope that the smaller birds are safe.
Yes they are and can be a danger to my little birds, I usually never see them in the yard.
The cover is not visible, but when you open the post, she is there. This is a great moment you’ve captured. I think it’s a hawk.
Thanks Elenka, I think it is a red tail hawk too.
A good post, though incomplete for other images does not appear.
Tell me about it Albert. I have tried and tried and tried again to contact support, no response. The has been going on for at least two days. Frustrated. 🙁
I can understand your frustration, Carol. May all these obstacles lead to goodness
Thank you very much Albert.
You’re most welcome for always, Carol
It’s crazy isn’t it. It doesn’t seem like it is consistent at all. Some people it seems to work for but not you and I. I am beginning to really wonder.
And no communication is certainly not helping the frustrating problem.
What the heck is going on! My cover photo is not showing up.