Can you spot the danger lurking in snowy branches?
We kept the ducks penned up for a few days recently as we waited for this Cooper’s hawk to (hopefully) move along. S/he’s one of a pair that has been hanging out in the neighborhood and I’d hoped the storm would deter them but, alas, they’ve still got our yard on GPS. It’s been a long, ice-coated winter so the raptors may be left with only feeder birds to hunt since much of their regular prey is either hibernating or just plain hiding.
Yet another complication to a thoroughly challenging cold season! The ducks have been troupers but we’re getting a bit weary, I must say. Keeping fingers crossed that the hawks will take off for easier pickings.
But they’re probably pretty patient.
And hungry.
Copyright 2014, Lori Fontanes
What the Ducks! 
A Cooper’s hawk is the last thing that you need hanging around your place!
You’re so right! *sigh*
YIKES! It is pretty well hidden in your picture, I could hardly see anything at first glance + thought it was a black squirrel. I did not know it was a Cooper’s Hawk!
And–unfortunately–s/he’s still around. Saw it in the tree today…well, more on that story later! (No fears, the ducks are back in their pen, safe & sound!!!)
Uh-oh I don’t think so. You need me to come and be your protect pig? I’ll do it. You know I will. Nobody better mess with my ducky friends. Give me that vulture. XOXO – Bacon
We’re OK, friend Bacon, but thanks for offering to be the tough guy! (Prayers for our continued safety gratefully accepted, however!!!)
Will do. Mom, dad and I will put y’all on our prayer list tonight. XOXO – Bacon
Thank u kindly!!!
I can relate. I feed birds and in turn feed the hawks. For the past couple of years, I have had them during nesting season. The hawks have found a great place to raise their young with a constant food supply.
The law of unintended consequences fully in effect! :)!