Sharp-shinned Hawk

On any given day, there are several species of birds that visit my backyard. The bird feeders are filled with black oil sunflower seeds, and the finches and chickadees spill as much as they eat, creating a mound of seeds at the base of the feeders. Squirrels, Scrub jays, and doves can frequently be observed feasting on the leftovers. But sometimes they are not alone.

Anytime there is a gathering of small birds, predators are never far away.

The past few days, a Sharp-shinned hawk has been lurking on the fence and in the trees overlooking the backyard, patiently waiting for an unsuspecting meal. But so far, the songbirds have survived the would-be predator.