Northern Harrier Launch

Northern Harrier LaunchAs dusk approached, shadows lengthened and the air grew still, yet an instinctive urge stirred within him. With renewed determination, the harrier shifted his stance on the post. In one fluid motion, he launched himself skyward, strong wings beating against the chilling air. As his talons left the snow capped perch, a spray of snow crystals danced briefly in the dying light, casting fleeting sparkles across the landscape. Now, airborne, the "grey

Gentle hues of colour kiss—

barely visible beneath the drifts

stood the Great Blue Heron—a solitary sentinel against the canvas of water and sky

Wings slice through the air

Purple iris blooms

Northern Harrier's will often move locations once prey is captured

talons ready

Perched atop the weathered wood was a short-eared owl

Patterns trace the leading path-

I moved silently with my camera

The late afternoon sun hung low in the sky

Upon this tranquil stage