From The Field Notes Book: A Hunting We Will Go

Just in case anyone thought from my previous post that I’d abandoned BirdsasPoetry.com, rest assured all is well.

On yet another cold, windy morning we had ventured out to see if the young kites were in residence or if they had finally taken the hint and moved on to explore new areas.

We found them down the paddock about a Kilometre from the home tree, and all three actively engaged in the business of food production.

A little further investigation, and it seems like they have continued to use the home tree as a roosting area, for present. It appears that a line (invisible so to speak) has been drawn through the home territory, and they have access to the western side, and can hunt and roost freely. The eastern side, where Belle has a new nest in production, is a no-go zone and should they venture there they are quickly hunted away. So it means that unlike most clutches, they are still operating in the home territory, if somewhat tenuously.

Bronson it seems is not adverse to sneaking over the line, with a treat for them from time to time. But there is no doubt they are now self-sufficient

Here is a selection showing them in action.

It is interesting to see them pull their head up to look around. Perhaps its to check for danger or perhaps to see if there is a better area to work over

I missed this one going down. It must have spotted the mouse and dove headfirst into the grasses, and I just couldn’t keep up with it. In a few seconds it lifted off with its prize

This is another one on full attack.

And here the two of them, with mouse in claw, arrived back on the home tree within seconds of each other.

Perhaps it is saying, “Mine’s bigger than yours!”

5 thoughts on “From The Field Notes Book: A Hunting We Will Go”

A beautiful series of images of the youngsters showing off their hunting skills. I like the idea of Bronson slipping them a treat every now and then when Belle isn’t looking.

LikeLike

Wonderful to see them making their way in the world, albeit still withing cooee of Mum and Dad!
A terrific series of images, David!

LikeLike

Wonderful captures David. It is a pictorial family journal of these young ones and their escapades. Loved the diving shots, and the last one of them checking each others prize.

LikeLike

Impressive set of great shots, David. It’s a pleasure to watch these birds in the air. So far I’ve got only one in my area and your photos make me wanting more (-;

LikeLike