This is a look and pose I’ve noticed fairly often from Red-tailed Hawks in conditions like this but I rarely see the same from a harrier.
1/800, f/7.1, ISO 640, Canon 7D, 500 f/4, 1.4 tc, not baited, set up or called in
I came across this bird about six weeks ago at Farmington as it was attempting to dry its feathers in a very weak sun (poor light, as you can see – not much light in the eye either) after a morning of hunting for voles in the snow. When they make repeated attempts at prey in snow that isn’t particularly cold their feathers become wet and abused and must be dried out. When they attempt to do so they often strike rather unusual poses.
This bird was close to the road and apparently didn’t much appreciate the occasional traffic noise in the snow but it was reluctant to abandon its task so it held its ground (post) and just glared back at the moving vehicles when they came along. I like how well defined some of the feather groups are here (especially the mantle on the upper back) and as you can see in the primary feathers this harrier needs to dry out and do some preening.
Not a great image but I enjoy seeing this kind of behavior.
Ron
I’ve seen this quite often in Brown Pelicans. They become waterlogged after about an hour of diving, and have to get out and dry out. The ones that are most expressive about it tend to be the youngsters (aged fledge – 3 yrs); the adults seem to take it all in stride. I’ve also seen geese that look absolutely ragged after spending too much time in water.
I think it’s a fantastic shot! Thanks for sharing!
Charlotte
My anthromorphic self empathises to the max. And my more objective self is so grateful you shared this incredible behaviour. Thank you.
Wonderful behavior-related photograph, Ron! It’s a view of a Harrier I certainly don’t get very often. Since they’re migratory here, it’s tough to stake out an area where they may appear so most shots are of chance encounters and almost always of the birds hunting. Thank you for another perspective!
This Harrier looks like a giant moth!
Another great analogy, Patty.
Ron, I think this shot is fantastic!! I love being able to see all the feather groups. Plus I have never seen a bird doing this. Thanks again. Fantastic as always
Thanks very much, Ellen.
Hi Ron, I also associate this most frequently with Red-tailed Hawks, but have seen it on other raptors as wel. I call it the “Darth Vader” pose….
Cheers,
Dick
“Darth Vader” – perfect, Dick!
I love that tiny glimpse of the signature white rump. In a way she looks like she’s wearing a cape. Wonderful, thank you.
My eye was caught by that white rump patch too, Sharon. It almost looks too high (anterior) on the bird because so much of the tail is exposed.
Beautiful shot! I love this kind of behavior image so much more than the “pretty” shots, because it gives me a peak into their lives. The “mantling ” pose, the feather detail, the stoic look, the weathered wood are wonderful! You were so lucky to capture this , as Imam to see it. Once again, thank you for something special and unique.
Thank you, Patty. It’s a good thing you appreciate behaviors if you’re going to hang out around here…!
Beautiful feathers. It does have a “do you mind” look on its face.
“Do you mind” describes that look perfectly, Jean.