A fierce predator is on the wing. Yesterday I heard a cacophony of bird chirps, tweets, and screeches outside my window. The ruckus grew so loud I knew something alarming was happening the the yard. It was a Cooper's Hawk perched on the deck rail, looking for an easy meal. Birds were sounding the alarm because this hawk specializes in eating medium-sized birds.





He was back again today, perched on the Bluebird house.





Both days I breathed a sigh of relief when he flew away with empty talons. Activity in the yard resumed, but the birds will have to be wary because this cocky hawk will be back. He acts like he owns the yard, but I guess he does--no one would dare to challenge this big fellow!