
Don’t mess with mama! When an intruder dared to approach the family home, the female at my favorite nest flew into action. I never did see what got her upset but it was clear she was on a mission to dispense with some sort of interloper.
I loved the action captured in this shot as she flew by. With the nictitating membrane (inner eyelid) closed, she looks quite menacing. After flying off for a few minutes, she returned, continuing her watch.