Raptor Again

It was almost two months ago since I spotted a raptor along Helena Road. Since then, both Ed and I have been seeing hawks of one kind or another throughout Huron County.

This raptor, looking very much like the bird that I saw in July, was clinging to the glass protector on a utility pole on M-25 out near Huron City today. I spotted the bird soaring above the highway, wings outspread and enjoying the thermals. Then the raptor settled down on the top of this pole.

I grabbed my camera, the trusty point-and-shoot, and walked over to the pole. The bird flared a bit, tottered on the glass, and took off in another spectacular show of soaring wings and graceful glide paths over the ripening bean fields.

Maybe the hunting is good along the highway, or maybe it is time to be gathering for migration. Whatever the event, it was great to see this majestic bird in action.

Copyright 2013
Wanda Hayes Eichler

Little Raptor

Spotted in a dead pine tree near the corner of Helena and Parisville Roads this weekend, this little raptor seemed intent on having his photo taken. The bird clutched the branch for dear life and kept watching me as I maneuvered to get a good angle with my camera.

Notice how long the talons are and notice that the feathers are fresh looking, not worn down, like a bird that has been around for a while. Some of the feathers are fluffy, like baby feathers. The dappled, speckled look would indicate that this is a young bird, too.

I hope that the little raptor finds plenty of mice and voles to eat, and that he/show grows up to be a fine big part of the food chain in Huron County.

Copyright 2013
Wanda Hayes Eichler

Tabletop Raptor

Whoa! What's that on the patio table?

I had just finished emptying the SD card from my camera after a long morning walk. I took photos of trees and birds and mountains. I was feeling pretty pleased with the morning's photography session and then I happened to glance toward the back patio.

A raptor -- a fairly large raptor -- was sitting on the patio table. The bird stayed long enough for me to grab my camera and get some shots of it through the back door.

My guess is that the bird might have seen its reflection in the glass of the table and come looking for some raptor companionship.

Copyright 2012
Wanda Hayes Eichler