Red-shouldered hawk

This magnificent red-shouldered hawk perched in the dogwood for about ten minutes today. He scanned the area for tasty squirrels or birds to catch. He’s a big bird, about twelve inches tall.

Close up of a red-shouldered hawk

I’m so happy that my zoom lens lets us get a close look at his alert expression, hooked beak, and gorgeous feather pattern.

Red-shouldered hawk with ruffled feathers

I first spotted him from a different window, where I had to look through the branches to see him. Something about his hunched shoulders and ruffled feathers reminds me of Gru, the adorable evil guy from the Despicable Me movies.