This young Red-shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus) stared down at me with curiosity and interest yesterday at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge and stayed in place even when I passed almost directly beneath it. In my experience, younger birds are more likely than adults to hang around as I approach. As they grow older, I suspect, they rightly come to view humans as potential predators.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
Wow, Mike. That’s a great shot. I like how he’s looking down. Do you think he’s wondering if he could carry you?
It would be great to know what he was thinking. The amazing thing is that the was certainly aware of my presence but did not find me or the the long lens pointing in its direction to be threatening.
Beautiful photo! ❤️👍🏻
Nice shot!