Squirrel chase

If practice makes perfect, then the Tompkins Square hawk kids will some day be expert squirrel catchers, just like their dad.  The two fledglings that are still in the park have been intent on catching squirrels.  So far, the squirrels have out-maneuvered them, but the hawks are learning. 

On Sunday, the fledgling below made several swoops at squirrels and gave chase on the ground on the eastern side of the park.  The squirrels are very territorial and will defend their trees, especially against the young hawks, who aren't quite skilled enough yet to nab them.







One quick leap and the hawk could reach the squirrel...



But, you can see here the hawk has taken its eyes off the prize.



And here, the hawk is moving in the wrong direction.





But wait!  One mistake by the squirrel and it ends up falling and doing a back flip over the stick on the ground.



The quick and limber squirrel manages to evade the hawk and lives to see another day.