I've been back a couple of times to the hawk migration observation site:
I had a chance to release a Red-tail Hawk. Last week I observed: 1 Merlin, 3 Sharp Shin Hawks, 3 Red-Tails, 1 Cooper's Hawk, a Northern Harrier (which is nicknamed "the Grey Ghost"), a Golden Eagle, and 2 Bald Eagles. The site was almost shutdown by the current stupidity reigning in D.C. but "Grizzly Adams" tore up the observers Forest Service Volunteer forms since they are actually paid by Hawkwatch Int'l. Spending times on the various mountaintops around where I live helps me keep things in perspective. These birds are gorgeous.
Mature female Sharp Shin Hawk (L) and juvenile male Sharp Shin Hawk (R)
Female Sharp Shin Hawk
Merlin
Merlin
Researcher and Red-Tail
Red-Tail Hawk
Me releasing Red-Tail Hawk after banding by researchers
Another day at the office for hawkwatcher/counters....
Why I like hanging out on this ridge:
And I saw this guy - who wasn't at all concerned I was there, but will be scarce this week as hunting season opens......