Here I come!

I was watching this red-tailed hawk for a while in a tree near the side of the road. It let me get close enough that I could almost fill the entire frame with him (rare). Fortunately I was ready when it finally did decide to take off and managed to grab this shot as he departed.

Equipment used: Canon EOS 20D and EF 400mm f/5.6L

Greg

Wow, I'm suprised nobody has commented on this picture yet. Beautiful shot, but I'd just PS out the twigs on the bottom, and then you have probably one of the best hawk pictures I've seen in a while.

Good shooting,

Jared

This is really a beautiful image. I can't believe I didn't notice it sooner. I know what you mean about not getting a chance to fill the frame with one of these guys. I have tried and tried to get close enuf to them but they always take off before I get there. :( Great timing on this shot and I don't mind the twigs in the pic one bit. I think they help show that the bird is just taking off from his perch. The image seems a tad soft, but it's still a great shot. Nice work.

Twigs not a bother - great photo, but I can understand Jared's comments it would be good either way.

Kudos for capturing this photo.

I love this picture.
I once was able to get close to a hawk but the picture did not turn out when he took off in the wrong direction through the bush. :(

Very nice, please don't take out the twigs - it gives a reason for the leg angle.
Makes me want to go out and buy a 400 !

Greg,

I look forward to seeing what you are going to post next. Thanks for all the beautiful wildlife shots. It amazes me that you can get these guys on the fly! This is another great one!

Chris