Trying to choose only three of my favorite photos for this challenge was very difficult. I decided to focus on memorable moments from home.
The first shows a glorious fall sunset behind my juniper tree muse. I like the combination of color, lightness and darkness, and texture in this photo. The branches of the western juniper tree seem to be directing a symphony of clouds.
The second is a close up view of a different juniper tree’s bark. Though some see western junipers as an unwelcome invader in sagebrush habitats, I’m impressed by their beauty. Their rough bark varies in color, as does their wood. Wrinkles add to their character as they age. The birds in my yard are grateful for the shelter and food these trees provide.
The third picture is of my “pet” Cooper’s Hawk. I’ve taken a lot of pictures of her. On this day, she took an extended bath and spent a long time preening her feathers. Her fluffed up feathers, piercing gaze, and stance are not the typical view you get of these raptors. It was one of those memorable moments!
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All beautiful photos, but I especially love the Cooper's hawk preening, creating a shawl of her feathers. And that spot of metallic green on her beak matches the background of pine needles nicely.
Thanks, Becky! I think her nest is in our neighbor's yard. She keeps an eye on me when I'm weeding.
Wow shots!
Thanks, VJ! :D
You're welcome
Great photos! We have cooper's hawks here, they are so beautiful!
Thanks, Lisa! Yes, Cooper's are gorgeous birds.
You are a very gifted photographer!
Thanks, Vikki! As you know, we live in a beautiful neighborhood.
Have to say I just love this trio. While I am partial to sunrise, this sunset is glorious. And the bark. Sigh. So great. I have never been able to get a good photo of a Coopers Hawk, so this is a real treat to see!
Thanks, Bonnie! The Cooper's Hawk is attracted to the many birds visiting our water feature. We are lucky we get to see them so closely. :)
Wow… that symphony of clouds!!
Love the hawk, what a fabulous shot!
Thank you, Amy! Sometimes you don't need to look any farther than your backyard.
Great selections. I like 'em all!
Thanks, John! It was hard to choose only three.
Thanks for joining in with such a super set of images 😀
Thank you and thanks for hosting! :D
Your sunset is glorious Siobhan but the little bird stole my heart!!
Thanks, Tina! The sunsets and hawks are common visitors to our yard. Lucky us!
Oh, the bird! Fabulous!
Thanks! Glad you liked it.