Over the years we have had Red Shouldered Hawks (Buteo lineatus) nesting in or near our yard. This year the nest must be in a tree in the neighbor's yard across the street. I can hear their distinctive call in the yard and woods behind as they fly between the two houses. Our yard bordering the wet lands is situated near their favorite food sources. Plus I hate to admit it, our bird feeder may tempt them with an easy meal from time to time.
A couple of days ago I witnessed something unusual, three hawks landed in the same pine tree out back. I needed to figure out whether or not this variety of hawk exhibited this grouping behavior. According to the website above parents will feed their young for 8 to 10 weeks, and it will be up to 17 to 19 weeks before the young are independent. I've gotten to wondering if what I've been witnessing is the young learning to hunt under the tutelage of one of their parents. I have not been able to tell if it is a male or a female adult and young. Then move quickly and haven't perched for long. It is amazing to see them glide through the woods.
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