Hovering Hawk Owl

Nice sharp shot Hal. Looks like you were with Whum , as it is very similar to his shot, except you got it all in.

Hal, you can edit your own initial post and add the technical details, no need to add a separate comment to do so.

Yes, Wilson was there with us. I was standing in a better location and angle. I was also a bit closer, but most imortantly, and to Wilson's dismay, the bird just likes me better. I don't think any of us were ready for him. He took us all by sursprise when he did this. We were expecting him to fly off into the forest across the street, but then all of a sudden he just stopped right in front of us and started hovering, and I was in the perfect position. I have a few more shots of him hovering. Unfortunately, there is a group of photographers from the U.S. and other parts who have come in for a "workshop" that have been photographing him as well the past few days, and it involves baiting. We spent almost 2 weeks with the bird, got all these amazing shots, and not one single bait. The bird was active enough on his own. I understand why some birders are angry.

Very nice action shot. Perfect composition and details.

D&L

Hal,

Neat behavior and lovely wing spread

Really unique photo you have here! Can you post your camera gear and techs?

Cool behavior, Hal. I like the image even without eye contact, simply for the natural history aspect. On my monitor, the contrast looks like it might be a bit high. Excellent detail and a nice bg.

Awesome Hal. I wish his head was up a bit but he probably would have ignored you if you asked him that favor. Great detail