The Release of a Red Tailed Hawk

The Blue Ridge Wildlife Center rehabilitates more than 2,000 birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians a year. Last year we visited their rescue facility in Boyce.

This morning they released a red tailed hawk which had recovered from an injury resulting from a collision with a car. About 20 people gathered outside the North Warren Fire Department to watch the release. After a brief talk, a wildlife veterinarian opened the crate that held the bird.

He came out so quickly I didn't even see him until he took flight! He flew low at first but he was headed for the trees.

He landed on top of a tree and was kind enough to pose for his admirers. Some took pictures with cell phones, and some had cameras with long lenses. I had my Sony with a little zoom lens, but next time I hope to bring a longer lens, providing I practice with it first. I did remember to set the camera on a multi-shot sports mode so that it took three frames every time I pressed the shutter. This helped me capture action shots, although I think it sacrificed sharpness since the light was not very bright.

After everyone had time to take a few pictures, he flew out of sight. 

Sharing with Saturday's Critters and The Bird D'Pot.