For a couple weeks now, I've suspected a hawk has been regularly visiting our bird feeders, because the birds are very skittish and avoid the feeders for long periods of time.
This afternoon, I finally got a good look at the adult Sharp-shinned Hawk visiting the yard.
I originally saw it in the river birch tree outside our window and grabbed my camera.
Then it flew down and circled a dense lilac bush where several birds had taken shelter.
It then flew and perched above the feeders, but continued to watch the birds hiding in the bush.
then it flew to a nearby buttonbush, and after circling the lilac bush several times, finally gave up and flew away.
Notice the skinny legs and black cap that extends down the back of the neck. These features distinguish it from a Cooper's Hawk, which is also generally larger. If I’m incorrect on the identification and rationale, let me know.
Photos can be viewed at: flickr.com/photos/dgetman/sets
Dan Getman, Kirksville, northeast MO
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The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
