Another Sharp-shinned Hawk in Regina, SK, backyard

From a distance, the hawk. ©SB

This year's juvenile Sharp-shinned Hawk was waiting for sparrows high in my neighbour's tree, rather than devouring them on a trellis in my own garden, as I photographed a few years ago.

We wondered whether a predator had flown in when all the chattering feeder birds suddenly fell silent, then disappeared into hiding spots around the yard.

And there it was, a large dark shape in the evening branches.

It watched me as I walked down the alley to get closer.

It didn't seem bothered by my presence — I was so far below, and on the other side of a high fence. Besides, it was watching for prey.

Closer telephoto views of my Regina neighbour's backyard hawk - likely a juvenile Sharp-shinned Hawk. ©SB

At least, I think this was a Juvenile Sharp-shinned Hawk from its colouring and quite bright yellow eyes...  Looks a bit like a Merlin, too, but Sharpies are more likely in backyards, says HawkWatch International, which adds that the eyes are a "telling giveaway."   

What is this? A young Sharp-shinned Hawk - Épervier brun 

Location: In my neighbour's backyard, Regina, Saskatchewan

Photo dates:  February 2, 2016. 

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Sharp-shinned Hawk in Regina backyard

Sharp-shinned Hawk, on a very windy day! © SB

A young Sharp-shinned Hawk blew in to feed in our Regina, Saskatchewan, backyard this week.

From the feathers and feet, its prey was a smaller bird, likely a House Sparrow, as that's all we've had on offer lately.

The hawk devoured it on top of our trellis.

The colour of this Sharpie's feathers and eyes will change as it matures. I wonder if it will drop by for sparrows again next year?

Sharp-shinned Hawk
in my backyard. © SB

Gore alert! ...  Too late.
The Sharp-shinned Hawk
devours its meal. © SB

Immature Sharp-shinned Hawk. © SB

What is this? A young Sharp-shinned Hawk - Épervier brun

Location: In my backyard, Regina, Saskatchewan

Photo dates: January 11, 2014. 

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