A Perch is a Perch for an Urban Raptor

I have a passion for urban raptors, and I love learning about how city-dwelling birds of prey make a living in human-dominated environments.  Something that any raptor needs to successfully hunt or defend territory is a nice high perch with a good view of the surrounding area. My various encounters with urban raptors have brought me some fun moments that I wanted to share.    

Hawk Signage

Sometimes a simple sign post is all you need.  Check out these Red-tailed Hawks making it work on various parking lot signs in East Cambridge, MA.  

Hawks Run On Dunkin’

I hate to stereotype all Massachusetts hawks, but it is true – they’re all addicted to Dunkin’ Donuts, just like the humans!

Crossing the Police Line in Boston Common

This hawk’s expression says “I’ll cross whatever I damn well please.” This is a juvenile Red-tailed Hawk, and it’s planning a felony against a nearby squirrel in Boston Common (Boston, MA).  

Coop on a Subaru

This local fledgling Cooper’s Hawk found a neighbor’s Subaru sedan as a perfectly acceptable place to launch an attack from.  

Red-tailed Hawk: I’m Lovin’ It

This young Red-tailed Hawk took a break on top of a carpenter’s van in the parking lot of the local McDonald’s.  Probably a decent place to find rats chowing down on leftovers. 

A Patriotic Raptor

Finally, enjoy this Red-tailed Hawk, doing its best to replace the Bald Eagle as the national bird of the United States.  Nice try!