Northern Harrier

It's only food if you can find it.
A next meal is not guaranteed.

A female Northern Harrier searches the cattail marsh for something to eat.

She quickly glides through the thicket, to disappear just as quickly if no opportunity exists. Surprising a coot or small mammal was her plan.

Today she's not having much luck.

The coots and small critters are hiding in the cattails. Her hunting pressure has made them weary. She stops to rest in a tree to let the marsh relax again. This tactic might bring her success later.

She watches from the far end of the pond.

But life depends on finding food today. Hunger makes her hunt.

(Click any picture to enlarge)

Arriving fast, low, and silently is her way of thriving.

Gliding over the wetland is a daily routine for her. It's a pleasure to see her work, regardless of success or failure.

This is 'nature' as entertainment.

It's quiet, unpredictable, rewarding and free.

Allan

Credits:
Cornell Lab of Ornithology, All About Birds
The Sibley's Guide to Birds