Red Shouldered Hawk Chased Out of Backyard By a Mockingbird

Young Red Shouldered Hawk Intimidated By A Mockingbird

I was treated to a rare sight the morning of March 28th when a young Red Shouldered Hawk was perched in the Chinese Tallow Tree overlooking the backyard looking to snag a bird for breakfast.  A Mockingbird who along with the Blue Jays act as the security guards of the backyard quickly spotted the inexperienced young hawk out in the open and proceeded to attack it and chase it off. This is common behavior, but not easy to catch on video. Had to act fast and shoot through the window. A raptor at rest is at a distinct disadvantage when attacked in the roosting position or even in the air, in this case the fast and nimble Mockingbird is safe when on the offensive and in close quarters. Hawks take unsuspecting prey such as Mourning Doves  where there is an open area and they have a chance to build up speed. Below are two photos of mature hawks that frequent the backyard. Blue Jays will often do a pretty good imitation of a hawk call and can be particularly nasty in small groups. 

The same fate can befall the male screech owl who is now hiding near the nest box in the daytime and going to great lengths to avoid detection least he be mobbed by the backyard guardians! Adventure is as near as the backyard!

Mature Red Shouldered Hawks Seen In the Backyard

Always a Thrill to see a Red Shouldered Hawk Take Flight!