Red-Tailed Hawks Perched Along Mopac Highway
By: ralphbarrera
Tags: Red-tailed Hawk Mopac highway Austin Birds of Prey
Category: Photojournalism
| Aperture: | f/5 |
|---|---|
| Focal Length: | 280mm |
| ISO: | 200 |
| Shutter: | 1/0 sec |
| Camera: | Canon EOS-1D Mark II N |
The Red-tailed Hawk is one of Austin’s most-recognizable birds of prey as it can often be seen perched atop the light standards along the long north and south stretches of Mopac. When in flight the red tail feathers can be seen easily against a clear sky. The birds are opportunistic hunters feeding on mostly small mammals and sometimes reptiles and other birds. The hawks use the elevated perch site, swooping down to seize prey, catching birds while flying, or pursuing prey on the ground from a low flight.
photos by Ralph Barrera
AUSTIN MATTERS by Ralph Barrera 
I see them all the time. I now look for them. I mostly see them between the 183 and Windsor exits perched on the southboud light poles. I usually only see one, but I once saw two — each perched on successive light poles. So cool!
They are very cool. I seen them in town, a few flying over Lady Bird Lake and one this year in the parking lot of a UT game right outside the stadium and only a few feet above our heads. It was a crowd-stopper. I have also seen them northeast and southeast of town. That only means they are finding plenty to eat and multiplying. Thanks for looking and best to you.