On Sunday (14 FEB) Shara and I stopped at the Lansing Mall to buy a few things and have lunch. As we were driving along the outside of the mall we noticed a large flock of
American Robins (
Turdus migratorius) feeding on the ornamental crab apple fruits. Then Shara looked into a spruce tree alongside our truck and noticed something staring out.
 |
| Cooper's Hawk (Photo by Shara LeValley) |
 |
| Cooper's Hawk (Photo by Shara LeValley) |
That's a
Cooper's Hawk (
Accipiter cooperii). The Cooper's Hawk belongs to a family of raptors known as accipiters. Accipiters typically live in forested areas and have short wings and long tails that allow them to maneuver swiftly through trees. Many accipters prey on other birds. This Cooper's Hawk was intently watching the flock of robins.
When we exited the mall about two hours later Shara noticed the Cooper's Hawk sitting on the ground. It had successfully made a kill and was feasting on a robin. While people wandered the mall, "nature" was happening right outside.
 |
| Cooper's Hawk with kill (Photo by Shara LeValley) |
 |
| Cooper's Hawk with kill (Photo by Shara LeValley) |
 |
| Cooper's Hawk with kill (Photo by Shara LeValley) |
Earlier that morning I had debated about whether to take my camera or not. I should know by now that if i don't have my camera there is a good chance that I will end up regretting it.
No comments:
Post a Comment