Watch Video and Live Web Cam of Red-Tailed Hawks Hatching

This might be the first time I've written two blog posts in one day, but this news can't wait. Right now, on top of a light pole on the campus of Cornell University, in Ithaca, N.Y. a pair of nesting red-tail hawks is having an exciting day. One of their chicks hatched yesterday and a second one is in the process as I write. I've been watching the action this morning and it's amazing to see this mother trying to keep the one chick and the other eggs warm in cold weather, while high winds sway the nest and ruffle her feathers. The father flies in and out, bringing food and nest materials, and sometimes taking his turn at brooding. This is all thanks to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, and their All About Birds website.

I know New York is a long way from Tacoma, but we have red-tailed hawks here too. I will try to find more information on them to add soon. In the meantime, click here for the LIVE WEB CAM where you can see action via the web cam and read all about this mating pair. At the bottom of the web cam screen, you will see a tab marked "medium" where you can adjust the resolution to high definition. Then try watching full screen. It's as clear as if you were there.

If you've seen red-tailed hawks around the Pacific Northwest, please comment and share your experiences!
  

Your Funky Nest Could Win a Prize



Credit Victoria Jostes 

 If the words "funky nest" make you think of that first apartment you decorated in eclectic thrift store style, think again. Consider the possibility that birds might be just as creative and original as humans when it comes to giving a home some personal touches.

I remember when my grandfather discovered a robin's nest built on the tines of a metal rake that hung on the wall of his barn. That earned him a photo and story in  the hometown paper. But you might do even better.

If you happen to have a similarly comical or interesting avian abode in your own backyard, consider entering to win prizes and online publication in the "Funky Nests in Funky Places" environmental challenge sponsored by the Cornell University Lab of Ornithology. It's all part of their Celebrate Urban Birds project.

"We've had such fun with this challenge," said Karen Purcell, the project's leader. "The theme really struck a chord with people. You wouldn't believe how many people showed us bird nests in barbecue grills, garages, garden tools, and signs. We've seen bird nests on statues, wind chimes, a cannon, and even on bathroom fixtures. I can't wait to see this year's entries!"

I wish I'd taken a photo of the nest a little bird built in one of my hanging fuchsia baskets years ago. I discovered it, to my horror, when I reached my watering wand up higher than I could see, to give my plants a drink. Instead, I gave a very surprised bird and its eggs an unappreciated shower. When it came to choosing real estate, that birdie was all wet. Like the experts say, it's "Location! Location! Location!" Be sure to keep your eyes open for unique residences in your own backyard. I'm sure that somewhere here in Tacoma a bird is building a funky nest in a funky place right now.

You can learn all about the contest here and see photos of last year's entries. Have fun and good luck!
 


Credit Kathleen Petter

 Copyright 2011 by Candace J. Brown
All rights reserved.

Photos used with permission from Cornell University Lab of Ornithology