Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Raptors of Louisiana


Today I'm posting an array of raptors that I encountered on my trip across Louisiana. I was amazed that there were so many. No exaggeration a hawk on a telephone pole every 1/4 mile. Thankfully there was little traffic on route so I could, if the spirit moved me, pull the car off for a quick photo.  I'm really happy about the Sharpie as I have not been able to photograph one previously.  I now have a much clearer view on the differences between a Cooper's and a Sharpie.  I watched a North Harrier take a black water snake right in front of me.  I froze because it happened so fast and didn't get the picture.  I luv this birding game.  Enjoy, I did!



Red-tailed Hawk

Northern Harrier

Northern Harrier

American Kestrel

Merlin
Bald Eagle

5 comments:

Dan Huber said...

fantastic pictures.

dan

Jen Sanford said...

Great photos! One question- are you sure that's a Sharp-shinned? I've never seen one so I'm no expert, but it sort of looks like a Merlin to me... Seeing that harrier grab a snake must have been awesome!

John (Tucker) said...

Jeez Jen....I think you might be right about the Merlin. I never photographed a sharpie or a merlin so I'm not sure. I didn't see it doing any magic so not sure about Merlin. Haha. Thanks for your comments. Up for debate!!!

Jen Sanford said...

Ha I've never photographed either, either! If only he had been wearing a wizard hat!

FAB said...

Nice series of raptor shots John.

BTW I also enjoyed the post on the Rails.