Juvenile Swainson’s Hawk, San Luis Valley Colorado. This young bird had a lot to say, one of many raptors on a photo tour in southern Colorado and northern New Mexico. Hearing a hawk screaming is powerful and resonates long after the echo’s of the screeching fades. It stirs up the senses like something known and recognizable from our ancient past. It’s that way for me. Thanks for looking. G
4 thoughts on “Juvenile Swainson’s Hawk”
Geraint,
Lovely hawk image.
I too love photographing NM’s raptors.
Just letting you know, I do not believe this is a Juvenile Swainson’s.
In the image, the hint of a “belly band” tells me it’s a Red Tail.
Usually Swainson’s have a more streaked breast with an unmarked white belly.
But hey, I could be wrong.
Thanks for sharing your work.
BR
Britt
You are probably right about it being a red-tailed hawk. I agonized over it before posting because there were adult Swainson’s hawks in the vicinity. Last year I knew their locations and those of the red-tailed hawks. I usually send the image to Jean-luc Catron (the raptor expert) in Albuquerque. I didn’t want to bother him but now I will. Thank you for looking and taking the time to write. G
It’s a juvenile redtail. Nice pic, nonetheless!
I stand corrected. Thank you Mark. G