Rough-legged Hawk wings raised, Bosque del Apache, New Mexico

Rough-legged Hawk wings raised, Bosque del Apache, New Mexico - Rough-legged Hawk
Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, near Socorro, New Mexico, USA (December 2017)

Seen at the far side of the South Crane Pond. This image was taken during a trip organised by Natures Images and led by Chris Gomersall and Ellie Rothnie.

A Bald Eagle had earlier killed a Snow Goose (though this was not seen) then took off leaving the unfinished carcass. A Rough-legged Hawk then appeared to claim the remains. This bird is believed to be a light morph adult male.

Status is classified as Least Concern. Also known as Rough-legged Buzzard. For more information on this bird species see the following links:
Rough-legged Buzzard Buteo lagopus / Internet Bird Collection
Rough-legged Buzzard / Bird Forum
BirdLife International / Rough-legged Buzzard Buteo lagopus
ARKive / Rough-legged hawk (Buteo lagopus)

Shooting Time 15:53
Tv(Shutter Speed) 1/640
Av(Aperture Value) 11
Exposure Compensation +2/3
ISO Speed 1600

Latitude 33 51 15.1 N
Longitude 106 52 41.4 W
Altitude 1383.40m


Rough-legged Hawk takes off, Bosque del Apache, New Mexico


Also in: Rough-legged Hawk

Rough-legged Hawk takes off, Bosque del Apache, New Mexico