I had only taken about 3 steps out of my front door when a big gray blur went flying by my face and landed on the street light in front of my house. I caught what I thought was a white terminal tail band but not much more because of the speed. I happened to have my camera right on my shoulder and pursued. Once I jogged up a little closer and saw the hawk perched on the pole I was able to identify it as Cooper's Hawk. Nothing gets me more excited than urban adapters. I usually have to make all sorts of special trips to better habitats for wildlife, so it really pleases me to see we haven't completely sterilized this concrete jungle I call home. The Coop flew down into a rectory parking lot across the street and I was able to take two nice id shots. No matter how many birds of prey I see, I just can't help but be blown away when I open the files and zoom into all their details. This neighborhood raptor looks particularly menacing. Accipiters are born with bright yellow eyes that turn red after the third, so this sub-adult Coop has those evil orange eyes you like to see on a raptor. It took a dive at some House Sparrow in the bushes there, but was unsuccessful in catching any food before it flew off deeper into the heart of Buffalo.
I figured since it was Superb Owl Sunday I would check in on the Great Horned Owl and look around for the day roost of the male. No luck there! While I continue to be completely ineffective at finding the male's hiding spot, I graciously award him the king of hide and seek award. This bird is good. I'll find him though. One day... one day. The female was on alert when I arrived because of all the traffic around the nest. I only stayed for about 3 minutes but I noticed her dozing her off when all the cars stopped going by. Glad she feels ok with me around.