Hawks in the garden

 

WINTER BIRD FEEDING - HAWKS

 

This morning we were surprised by a large Red Tailed Hawk in our garden. As is often the case it had missed its prey and flew away with his talons empty.

 

COOPER'S HAWK

Although we pay little attention to hawks flying overhead, they are impossible to ignore when they visit our back yards. There are a few hawks native to New Jersey; the             Red Tailed Hawk being one is a very large beautiful bird.

These majestic birds of prey strike horror into many people who don't want their favorite song birds taken. Often we blame ourselves for setting up the situation that also draws in hawks. During the winter when many critters are in their dens, the large number of birds at feeders creates an ideal hunting ground.

In reality Hawks are successful only 40% of the time. Not often considering the amount of energy birds of prey must put into every strike.

 

RED TAILED HAWK WITH PREY



DON'T TAKE DOWN YOUR FEEDERS

Often the first reaction to a hawk sighting is to stop feeding garden birds. According to the Audubon Society this is not recommended. The benefits to songbirds by back yard bird feeding out weights the losses that occur during the long winter. Like all living creatures, hawks need to eat also.

You can help your birds by knowing the main predators in your area. If your main predators are hawks keep your feeders close to shrubs so birds can make a quick getaway. I also place feeders close to fences that smaller birds can scurry though but the larger hawks cannot follow. This will give your birds a better chance to get away.

If you have neighbor cats the opposite is true. Keep your feeders away from shrubs that cats will hide in while stalking prey. Place them closer to the center of your yard so birds will have time to flee pouncing cats.

 

SHARP SHINNED HAWK IN FLIGHT 

 

A few years ago a lady told me a story. She was in her house when she saw a hawk in her back yard. She grabbed a towel and ran out swinging, trying to chase the hawk away. The hawk, having made a successful strike would not let it go. Spinning around, yelling and swinging the towel, she must have been a sight to see.

Moral of the story: Don't be crazy. Hawks are an important part of our natural environment.

Happy gardening,

James