@beckygardener, Becky, thank you for all the wonderful photos you submitted in this year's photo contest. They were a delight to see. This photo in particular caught my attention. You have captured this raptor as the truly majestic creature that it is. I once had a pair of Red Shouldered Hawks build a nest in my back yard, and I learned so much about them. Thank you for sharing this photo for all to see.

Hi Lori,

Thank you for your unexpected compliment. There are a lot of hawks in my area. The Red-shouldered Hawk is the one I see most often. I have also photographed Cooper's Hawks, too.

I have 4 pet chickens and the hawks will come and sit in the pine trees or other tall trees close to my chicken coop and watch my chickens for hours. I know this predator is dreaming of a feast should it get one of my chickens.

My chickens (hens) are either in their secure coop, their fully caged-in run, or if out in my backyard, I am out there too to keep a watchful eye on them due to the hawks waiting for a chance to get one of them. The chickens typically stay close to me or near bushes and trees in my yard for protection. I love all birds and feed a lot of wild birds, but my domestic chickens are my favorite "ladies". I love though how they attract some stunning predators!

Thank you again for taking the time to comment on my photo. I genuinely appreciate it!

Happy Holidays!
~Becky~

Keep a close eye on your hens. I had a hawk swoop in and catch a snake about 40 feet from my feet. It then flew straight over my head with the 4-foot snake dangling!

Lori - I have seen these hawks get squirrels, doves, etc. from my yard. They come swooping in silently, grab with those sharp talons, and fly right by me. They are excellent hunters.

Their very loud screeching on the other is totally annoying!