Cooper Hawks Raising Their Chicks

Proud Parent Keeping Watch

I began observing this family of cooper hawks on June 11, 2011 when my friend Len, invited me to photograph a family of hawks that were nesting in a dead tree right in front of his home in Tucson, AZ.  The photographer, and animal lover in me welcomed the opportunity.

As of this writing, I have made three separate visits over a period of eleven days, and their growth and development of this short period of time, is quite amazing.

This shot was taken on June, 11th.  There were two babies, one of whom was quite shy.  This one was much more curious.

Mama And Baby Chick

Here is mom with both chicks.

Protecting Her Young

Four days later, I returned, and the chicks had not only grown significantly, but were beginning to look like true juveniles.

Cautious

Brave

I returned a week later, and according to my friend, the chicks had begun learning to fly. Mom and dad would encourage them to hop from branch to branch, and with fear in their eyes, they would sally forth. Unfortunately, I have yet to capture any of these behavioral shots, but here they are as observed by me, last evening.

Tired And Hard Working Mom

Tired Chick

Proud

Mom Back On Watch

Rear View

Hope to get back soon.  I’ll keep you posted 🙂

You can see all my bird shots HERE