My husband recently decided to let Gracie, his first red-tailed hawk, fly free. Only 20% of most hawks in the wild make it to maturity (due to many reasons including disease and poisoning from eating tainted rodents). A hawk that has an opportunity to be with a falconer has a greater chance of surviving when it is released, as it will be stronger and healthier than if it were in the wild. I had a chance to take a few photos before he released her:
Gracie about to eat her last easy meal.
Gracie after eating that mouse.
She has such beautiful color and angles.
Argos waiting patiently.
Gracie (her beautiful red tail) and Theo
A Profile of Gracie
Just about to be released.
Gracie sits in the tree, unsure of her new found freedom.
My husband, saying a final farewell to Gracie.
Gracie finally flies away after about 15 minutes. Can you find her flying in the trees?
My husband has a new hawk now, a male, whose name is Oz. Stay tuned for photos and news about this new addition to our family!