Birds of Prey
Last week, I saw my second bird of prey in center city. The first time I saw one, it was over by the Society Hill Towers, I think in the late summer or early fall, devouring its victim with gusto. After consulting friends who know better than I, I was pretty sure it was a peregrin falcon. This was especially exciting, because I had just read On the Wing, by Alan Tennant. And, they are a threatened species.
Again, I spotted a bird finishing off his prey, last week near the corner of 3rd and Walnut. The telltale sign – bloody feathers on the sidewalk – told me to look up. Again, I spotted this bird while alone. I almost wonder if it was a sign. I’m not sure what type of bird it was this time. It was smaller, and it is also winter.
Has anyone seen birds like this in the city? It’s very exciting!
i see redtail hawks at least once a week out in university city. only been lucky enough to catch one eating a pigeon once, though. it’s always enough to make me grin to myself, and wonder how many other folks are noticing the hawk, too.
Saw a redtail yesterday, circling over Waverly near 13th.
The most exciting glimpse was in the summer, when I saw a peregrine falcon attempt a strike on a pigeon at 11th & South (he missed!). He came right down near people, too. Very cool.