Red Shouldered Hawk

by Mark Anglin
(Chatham, Ontario, Canada)

February 14th 2011 - Glenwood Drive in Chatham, Ontario. I just spotted what I believe is a Red Shouldered Hawk.

It flew up to perch on a fairly low limb where I could walk up and observe it from only about 15 feet.

The hawk knew I was there but was not intimidated or paid much attention to me. I was able to observe it for just under a minute. It was quiet, full plumage and appeared healthy.

When it was ready to leave it effortlessly took off at and flew at a the same low altitude it was perched.

I have seen Hawks rarely in the region but not in the city.

Beautiful bird.