Oh, those faces

Such a regal bird, in the open for a change, barred owl, magnetic fascination.

Even more enchanting, the tiny saw whet owl, well hidden, narrow viewing "window".  Images shot very fast, then stepped away.

Gorgeous little body.

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A day for smiling

This was the most bedraggled redtail I've ever seen. I think it had just taken a bath at Wagner Cove. No preening. I came along, reverse end, to see this hawk moving along branch. There was no way to get in front without falling into lake.

Finally it flew to west side of lake.

From redtail to redbelly woodpecker making swiss cheese tree.

Silent peek, the adorable saw whet owl.

It's very hard editing the saw whet. Tiny treasure. Sleeps and stares.  Of all the owls this one deserves privacy.  A mob of gawkers is not in the best interest of this bird. Sometimes the behavior of humans, bird photographers included, is atrocious. Never forget safety first.  Birds way up in trees are safe to do what they want. Birds within reach deserve privacy and quiet.  Having a camera is not a license to be noisy and intrude for long periods of time.  Quietly take a few pictures, then move on because that's the right thing to do. I'll post more saw whet images, shot within 2 minutes before silently walking away.
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A nice variety

Good day for seeing a nice variety. Alert cooper's hawk.

Gadwall

Jay

Hooray, an up high kestrel

This poor mocker has facial tumors. The eyes don't look healthy.

Red tail near 69th street

Same tree as usual  barred owl

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A little lunge

If you want lunch you have to lunge for it. Not exactly a feast.

This happened in a split second, 69th street wren. I shot through the fence as this happened.

Pretty all around

Wren scooted (as usual) out of range.
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Quiet Friday

It's that time again.  Christmas on 69th street.  The day was quiet. For some reason squirrel popped into hole. Nice safe house.

The main goal was to find a kestrel. Success!  But, oh... why does this bird have to perch so high, neck-breaking observation.

The jays were attacking. Kestrel couldn't have cared less.

I looked away for a second and kestrel had taken off. Drats!!

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