Competition

Osprey drives Swainson's Hawk off his perch © Diane B. Reed

Yesterday a Swainson's Hawk visited the Walnut tree that overlooks the pond, much to the consternation of the little birds that hang out at the feeders and in the yard. He was back on his perch this morning for awhile, then flew up into a nearby Sycamore tree. Unfortunately, he picked the favorite perch of one of our Osprey regulars, who flew in and flew into action, driving him off the perch. The action continued across the pond, where the Osprey landed on his favorite snag on the island. The hawk retaliated, and they flew at each other. The Osprey eventually prevailed and the hawk flew off.

Swainson's Hawk                                      © Diane B. Reed

It was an interesting confrontation, and I can't decide if it was over the perch, or a territorial initiative. Since the Osprey primarily eat fish and amphibians and the Swainson's Hawk eats rodents and insects, they're hardly in competition for food. My guess is that their tussle was over a perceived intrusion  into the  Osprey's territory.

Fishing derby at Lions Park © Diane B. Reed

Speaking of competition, yesterday was the annual fishing derby at the pond sponsored by the Lions. On Friday the pond was stocked with hatchery fish. It was guarded overnight by the Boy Scouts, and the fishing derby began at 8 a.m. 

Friday night there were several Great Blue Heron who seemed to have heard about the stocking and flew in for a look. These herons are solitary most of the time and several loud confrontations ensued. Having driven off the competition, the victor immediately waded into a shallow area and speared a fat trout, making short work of the fish. 

Great Blue Heron          © Diane B. Reed

I'm thankful we don't have to work as hard as these birds (and other animals) do to feed ourselves. Just head out for the grocery store and you can forage for everything you need. And except for the occasional shopping cart dodging, other shoppers don't challenge your being there or fight you for a can of beans or a head of lettuce.