Mid December with Rough-legged Hawks migrating through in good numbers.
Originally this one was spotted on a pole next to the road that provided some perch shots…after some time it finally took to flight after being spooked by a large transport truck.
Just happen to be in the right place at the right time…thanks Mr. Trucker.
After spotting the Rough-Legged Hawk that didn’t take to flight as soon as I stopped was an unexpected surprise.
So there I sat patiently waiting for some action…munching on some snacks and drinking cold coffee.
Finally it was Show Time.
While out searching back country roads for Snowy Owls and came across a different subject. Crow like in size or slightly larger Rough-legged Hawks are more likely to be seen at this time of year as they nest in the Artic and migrate South in late fall and winter.
They have a dark lower body patch along with a dark patch at the elbow on the underside of the wings. If you notice their legs are covered in feathers unlike other raptures and would be how they got their name.
Didn’t find any owls down that road but was rewarded with this hawk.