10 replies to this topic

[Southerncowgirlkim]

I saw this Red-Shouldered Hawk and Red-Winged Blackbird sitting right beside each other. They sat there quite a while then the blackbird flew away for a minute or so and came back. After that the blackbird chased the hawk. Wouldn't the blackbird be prey for the hawk? Just curious if this was normal to see. Thanks!

[cwj2323]

In our area, Blackbirds chase off hawks to get them out of their territory. That is interesting how they sat there like that. And great you got a picture!

Smaller birds will chase off those they consider threats. They make sure they never get below the raptor as they would be easy prey. Others may have more info, but that's what I know at this point and am still learning.

[JimBob]

Yeah it's normal. . . even more common when it's a red-tail!

[Southerncowgirlkim]

Ok, thanks!

[JimUSNY]

Small birds dont seem to alarmed by the red shouldereds here.. Im not sure they even eat other birds? all I see them eating ever is snakes and frogs

[creeker]

Not unusual at all. I'm sure that RWBB has a nest in those Tules right there. He's keeping an eye on the big predator, even though Red-shouldered are not big bird eaters, I'd imagine that Red-shouldered Hawk would eat some nestlings if he stumbled upon them. Dad won't let that happen.

Red-shouldered and Western Kingbird.....

[dancingbear860]

great shot!!!!

[Southerncowgirlkim]

Thanks for all the info, y'all!

[Clip]

Smaller birds would probably be more nervous around a Sharp Shinned Hawk. I know when I have seen them in my backyard a few times you could not see or hear any other birds nearby. The Sharp Shinned does eat other birds.

[creeker]

I agree with Clip. You won't find any small passerines sitting this close to an accipiter. I've seen some pretty spectacular catches made by an aware Cooper's and not quite so aware prey.

[Southerncowgirlkim]

Interesting!