Friday, May 18, 2012

Hawk update

Have you been here yet? The three baby red-tailed hawks are growing by leaps and bounds, even the runt of the group. The white down has been mostly replaced by feathers. Their little tail feathers are coming in, a sign it won't be long until they spread their wings (or get a good push out of the nest from Pops).

They are still fun to watch, particularly when the little ones sit down. Their legs bend so their feet are in front of them and their rumps are on the ground; it isn't exactly graceful.

They've figured out how to feed themselves, once a tasty mouse or bunny is set in front of them. Every so often one will spread its wings - already an impressive span.

It's worth a look on a Friday afternoon, and will bring a smile for you.

3 comments:

melissa said...

Gary and I have been checking back daily since you posted this. He thanks you! Interesting to be able to see the sun come up over the left of the screen, so we know which way they're pointing. :)

Right now they're preening. Amazing that as close to the edge they are, they don't fall off. And when the parent leaves, the babies just amuse themselves and sit there, never wandering from the nest. Humans could learn a lesson from this!

Diane said...

I love when the adult is in the nest - they generally sit on top of one of the chicks, mostly to keep them from walking all over everyone! It really has been fun. The wingspan on the babies is already impressive; I have no idea how long until they have everything they need for flight, though.

Janis Gore said...

Yes, this has been a treat. Thanks, Diane.