So, after talking to some of the other counters at Mt. Peter Hawk Watch and getting some feedback from John Haas, the consensus was that the two Lesser Yellowlegs in the previous post were just two young birds playing in such a way that it will prepare them for adulthood.
Today, out at Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge, I came across two more young birds interacting – first a curious young Northern Harrier that flew in close to me. He was joined shortly after by a young Cooper’s Hawk and the two tangled for a bit. More playing/training?
Oh my gosh, Matt, what great shots! Esp. like the 3rd & 6-8. The last one’s a great comparison of underside views for migration study.
Thanks Marianne, I really like them too. I really got so lucky with these birds because it was a gray evening with not much sun, but just when these two started, the sun had also peeked out a bit. Matt
These are so good, Matt
Are you doing them with your 100-400 lens?
I am so jealous of the great job you are doing with the images.
Wilma
Sorry Wilma for the delayed response, I just saw this. Thanks and yes, I am using the 100-400. Matt
These are great pictures in flight, Matt. The last picture really is an awesome shot. Good job, sir!
Thanks Karen, these were a pleasant surprise because I didn’t think I got anything good at the time. Matt