Field Notes

Northern hawk owl in Maine  

 1/20/09

 

   For several weeks now a northern hawk owl has made his residence in the Bristol area, directly off Route 130.  These beautiful raptors are usually found in the northern forests of Canada and Alaska, and are rare vistors to the state of Maine.  They spend most of their time perched atop branches keeping a keen eye out for rodents or small birds.  Unlike most owls, hawk owls are diurnal, meaning they can hunt in both day and night.  While I was watching I saw the owl swoop down several times after prey, unsuccessfully. The bristol hawk owl is a great oppurtunity to see this uncommon bird, it is often within easy sight of the road.  

   This is an initial sketch as I work up some painting ideas for this unique creature.