Sharp-shinned Hawk / by Akira Ohiso

I recently downloaded the Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Labs. You can download regional bird packs (libraries) and identify birds via photo or sound. The app is free.

Today, I snapped this photo of a bird I don’t usually see sitting on my patio fence. It was a noticeably larger bird than, say, a crow. It had a stout breast and a wide wingspan on takeoff. The app identified the bird as possibly a Sharp-shinned Hawk.

They are known to frequent the PNW during the winter months but are rarer during breeding season due to other larger predators coasting above for prey. Most travel north to Canada to breed. They feed on smaller birds in flight and backyard bird feeders. One bird site recommends taking down bird feeders for a bit if you see one nearby.