Shorebird flock 1

Millions of shorebirds migrate down the west coast of North America and stop at strategic locations to rest and feed. These locations also attract predators, especially Peregrine Falcons and Merlins, who I hope to photograph. The following is a collection of recent images.

Shorebird flock 2

Where I go, the majority of shorebirds seen are either Dublins and Sanderlings.

Shorebird flock 3

The more birds seen, the better chance of a predator in the area looking for a meal.

Shorebird flock 4

Shorebird attack 1

Peregrine falcons are the most frequently seen predator and charge in from either the side or from up above. The flock stays in tight formation most of the time with individuals that break away pursued vigorously. Birds captured are often victims of hitting the shoreline or water hard resulting in injury, which can be seen here and in other images.

Shorebird attack 2

Shorebird attack 3

Shorebird attack 4

A small shorebird is isolated and pursued.

Shorebird attack 5

Shorebird attack 6

It was amazing seeing the falcon rush through the flock.

Shorebird attack 7

Shorebird attack 9

Shorebird attack 10

Shorebird attack 11

This appears to be an immature “tundra” peregrine falcon

Shorebird attack 12

Shorebird attack 13

Amazing the falcon can penetrate the flock!

Shorebird flock 14

Shorebird attack 15

Shorebird attack 16

Local Harrier 1

Local Harrier 2

This Harrier often accompanied Peregrines and many times harassed them when hunting or feeding. The next few images depict this behavior.

Harrier and Falcon 1

Harrier and Falcon 2

Harrier and Falcon 3