You may have noticed the Tompkins Square red-tailed hawks flying around the park a lot more recently. The three fledglings have been very active practicing their flying and playing, and at least one has caught its own rat.
In all the previous years, the fledglings have kind of kept a schedule throughout the day when they were active in the early morning and late afternoon, but this year, the hawks seem to be energized throughout the day. That may change as we enter another heat wave this week.
This is one of the fledglings hanging out in a tree in the park. All three have colorful plumage at this stage.
They really are gorgeous.
This one flies past the warm brick of the Christodora along Avenue B.
It landed at the tippy-top of a tree.
After looking around a few seconds, the hawk continued on its exploratory journey of the park.
Eventually, the hawk came down and perched very low in a tree where I was happy to get a good look at it.
The parents will supplement the meals as long as needed. Below, Dad brings in a baby starling.
He's quickly ambushed by one of the fledglings who flies in from behind and grabs the food.
Mom Amelia also actively feeds the fledglings. This is her with the remains of a pigeon.
After giving away the food, she remained in the immediate area and kept an eye on everyone.
I caught her visiting a rooftop which I think may be serving as a food drop. She looked around for a few minutes before taking off empty-taloned.
As the weather heats up, you may see the hawks panting, which is normal. They also come to the ground to play, practice catching prey, and take baths. This is also normal behavior. Give them plenty of space and keep those dogs on a leash!
More to come.
