It's a Sharp-Shinned Hawk!

One of my favorite parts in the movie The Santa Clause is a scene when some marionettes are on a miniature stage, and as the camera pans, you hear one of the voices scream, "look, it's a sharp-shinned hawk!"

Well, yesterday in front of the Wild Bird Center where I work, we had a true drama, as an adult Sharpie hunted the very large House Sparrow flock that hangs out in the tall ornamental grasses on one of the islands in the parking lot. The sparrow flock has been increasing since the spring, to the point where there are probably 50 at times in the area around the bird feeder.

 Yesterday, this Sharpie made a dive at the feeder but missed the first time, and landed beside the grasses in the middle of the road, probably 30 feet from the front door of our store. It proceeded to skulk through the tall bunches of grass, hopping in an out of the cover, then onto the street. I could see a group of about 10 sparrows sitting at the top of the grasses only a few feet away, and I figured it was only a matter of time for this cool carnivore to be enjoying dinner.

What was surprising to me was how unconcerned the hawk was about people nearby. One man was standing and taking pictures of the hawk probably 15 feet away. Other people were milling in the parking lot. And the hawk was in the middle of the road! Apparently he has adapted quite well to people, or is at least willing to be a bit daring when an easy meal is to be had.

The hawk did snatch a sparrow and after briefly taking it to the ground, flew off, to the delight of the customers and staff at the Wild Bird Center (except for the one lady who seemed to be disturbed by the very thought of a hawk being anywhere near her).