Hawk in the snows (pics)

[jonny_redhorse]

I came across this hawk pummeling a sparrow out on the lake ice this morning while photographing the loons...the sparrow got away and this hawk(disgruntled no doubt) landed on a branch not to far from me and let me get a few quick images....not real sure of the species but kestrel maybe? but the head coloring doesn't seem right,coopers maybe?...tried to find it in my audubon field guide(think I'll pitch this guide ,gotta be better ones!)

[Steve Foss]

Sibley, Jonny, get the Sibley. The Sibley Guide to Birds will be the last birding field guide you'll ever buy.

This is a merlin.

[jonny_redhorse]

Thanks Steve!....a merlin it is...and a Sibley it shall be! ...when my wife and I head down to the Miller hill mall in duluth the next few weeks....will definitely pick one up at the book store there

[The_Lee]

Middle photo is my favorite... great shots!

[finnbay]

Great shots, jonny! I picked up a Sibley's on Steve's recommendation, and so far it's been 100% on identification.