VA Birders,
At about 10:30 this morning, I saw a Rough-legged Hawk at Occoquan Bay
NWR. I believe it to be a light morph immature or adult female. Driving
in to the refuge, just 30-40 feet short of the parking lot, I saw a big
raptor land in an isolated tree near the pond, directly in front of me
on the other side of the lot. As it landed, it spread its wings and
tail, giving me a full, frontal view of its white primaries, black
carpal patches and belly, and white tail with a wide, black terminal
band. The upper breast and head appeared pale with some streaking just
barely apparent. All I could think was, Oooo-wee, I'm glad I got out
of bed this morning!
I grabbed my digital camera and got a few shots hanging out of the
window, because I was sure the bird would fly if I got out of the car.
I was right about that, but was able to get a few more shots of it in
flight. Although the bird was moving quickly out of camera range, one
photo shows the all white undersides with the striking black belly. The
bird flew low, then swopped upward and landed in another tree, further
to the northwest. Then it took off again in the general direction of
Rt. 1, not be be seen again.
Sparrows were out on the trails, feeding on the ground, as might be
expected with the snow cover. There was a mixed flock of Savannahs and
Songs, numbering about 60 and another 40+ of mostly White-throated
Sparrows. Other highlights were a No. Harrier and 2 Meadowlarks.
I would be happy to send my photos to anyone who would like to see them.
Paula Sullivan
Alexandria
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