Sunday, October 14, 2007

Northern Harrier

After much debating my husband and I think this bird of prey is an immature Northern Harrier.

We watched three of these beautiful birds hunt.

I did a google search.

10 comments:

Mary C said...

Great shots, Sherry! If only I could get shots like that of raptors.

Jayne said...

WOW Sherry, what beautiful photos of this magnificent bird!!!

Q said...

Dear Mary C,
After seeing so many raptors yesterday my husband and I decided we need to bring the tripod next time! Hand held is rather difficult when they are so far away! The light was dim too. Clear skies, tripod and a fliter would have helped us.
I was pleased to get these photos. I do have a pair of Harriers that hunt my backyard. I have not seen an immature hunting. I do hope I am right that this bird was an immature Northern Harrier...
Sherry

Q said...

Hi Jayne,
Seeing the different birds is always so exciting. Getting photos is the next challenge and identifying each species. I read and read and read my field guides.
Sherry

Mary said...

That would be a lifer for me! You continually amaze me with your skill.

Sprite said...

*****

Beautiful Birds, Wonderful shots~

L~ *sprite

Q said...

Dear Mary,
Watching this bird was exciting!
I have seen adults many times as there are a pair that hunt over and sometimes in my backyard!
Big wings in a small back yard!
Beautiful birds.
Sherry

Q said...

Dear Sprite,
Thank you. Going "birding" is so different than being in relationship with the birds in the backyard. Sometimes my birds almost seem tame. Here I was in the birds world. I was respectful, not getting too close.
Sherry

~Red Tin Heart~ said...

Whatever it is, it is beautiful! xo nita

Q said...

Dear Nita,
I agree!
I still have three birds I can not id from our Sunday hike. All were beautiful!
Sherry