Several Hawk Head Shots (captive)

[StarDog]

The Center for Wildlife ask for new pics of their Education Program Raptors - who could say no to these critters. All have wing injuries that keep them captive. The Center's first job is to get injured critters back to the wild. Some critters can not be rehabbed to live in the wild and the calmer of them are used in school and Audubon programs to teach folks about wildlife. Here are 4 of the ED birds - C/C please - Bob

http://maine-wild.smugmug.com/photos/217974807-L.jpg

Broad-winged Hawk (above)

http://maine-wild.smugmug.com/photos/217974682-L.jpg

Male Red Tail Hawk

http://maine-wild.smugmug.com/photos/217974555-L.jpg

Female American Kestrel

http://maine-wild.smugmug.com/photos/217974413-L.jpg

Female Red Tail Hawk

[gymell]

Nice portraits. I've found at my local raptor center, zoo and nature centers, it's very difficult to get shots due to fencing/cages, poor lighting and distracting backgrounds!

[StarDog]

Liz, I will admit I have access to the bird out of their enclosures. These were all shot in locations of my choice giving me the control over the BG and light. These birds are Ed birds and are somewhat comfortable with people, but I did use a 500mm for most of the shooting I did on Sunday - from the BG the last one was with the 70-200 at 200mm.

[gymell]

Hmmm, well maybe if I get in good with my local nature center they could use some photos. They have a RT hawk, barred owl and kestrel. Kestrels are just the cutest little things!

I've been very disappointed with the raptor center in terms of photography. The MN raptor center is one of the most well-regarded centers in the country and they have a great variety of birds. Unfortunately they are all behind mesh in dark enclosures and it's basically impossible to get a photo. Of course, I know it's all about the birds and not me, but it sure would be nice to get some good photos there!

[ajosteve]

These are fine shots of some amazing looking birds...steve

[canonloader]

They look very well cared for Bob. Great shots.

[pttenn]

Gosh those are wonderful portraits! You did a super job. Something really special about that first one...
Karen

[IraRunyan]

Great portraits. Ypur choice of BG is evry good.

[ErikT72]

These are stunning, thank you for sharing them.

[Airedale1]

Great job Bob. I am sure the Center will be very happy with those. My favorite is the last one, perfect BG and super detail.

[avwh]

These are all really, really good, StarDog - nice job!

That's a great photo gig to get - I'm jealous.

[Sindri Skulason]

Great series. Very well done indeed. :-)