Is It Me?

I’m a huge fan of Northern Harriers. They aren’t the largest, strongest, or fastest birds of prey, but they very well may be the most athletic. Their ability to change direction and contort their bodies into odd positions never ceases to amaze me.

I’m fortunate to live near several sites with year-round residents and if I’m patient, those birds often fly close by me at least twice during a morning shoot. I have countless images of female harriers looking right at me frequently from close range, as if they were checking me out.

However, I recently noticed that harriers do not approach me as closely during the winter. This coincides with the arrival of migrants from Canada and Alaska. Is it possible the year-round residents have gotten used to my occasional presence? Or is it more likely that the birds that approach me outside of winter are just curious juveniles that don’t know to keep their distance from humans?

Whatever the reason, the harrier pictured above, who is a year-round resident, flew by without fear and dove for prey about 40 feet in front of me. Unfortunately, the dive was unsuccessful, but I appreciated the trust.