Raptor

Rough-legged hawk

Buteo lagopus

An Arctic-breeding hawk that winters in small numbers on the open farmland of the Skagit and Samish flats, often hovering over fields in a way few other large hawks do.

Seasonality

Peaks in January, December. Winter visitor from late October to early April; most reliable December–February.

Behavior

Hovers in place over fields while hunting voles, especially on breezy days.
Perches on thin outer branches and wire tops that look too flimsy for a bird its size.
Usually arrives in late October and leaves by early April.

Photography tips

A hovering bird holds still long enough for a sharp frame; track it with continuous autofocus and a fast shutter.
The dark belly band and black wrist patches show best from below, so look for flight photos against an overcast sky.

Field ethics

Wintering raptors need every calorie; avoid repeatedly flushing the same bird from its hunting perch.
Stay on public roads and dikes; most of the flats is private farmland.

Rough-legged hawk

Seasonality

Behavior

Photography tips

Field ethics

Where to look

Rough-legged hawk

Seasonality

Behavior

Photography tips

Field ethics

Where to look