Scene in Edmonds: Rare bird sighting

Posted: September 14, 2015 1860
I photographed a broad-winged hawk capturing a garter snake along Pine St. across from the Pt. Edwards condos. According to a raptor expert I contacted, this hawk is rarely seen in western Washington. Based in my photos, he believed it was a first year juvenile that had probably hatched in May. The bird was most likely passing through town during the fall migration.
Last week, Bill Anderson photographed a broad-winged hawk capturing a garter snake along Pine Street, across from the Point Edwards condos. “According to a raptor expert I contacted, this hawk is rarely seen in Western Washington,” Anderson said. “Based in my photos, he believed it was a first-year juvenile that had probably hatched in May. The bird was most likely passing through town during the fall migration.” More of Anderson’s photos can be seen here.

  3. Great shot, Bill. I have seen several garter snakes at the marsh this summer. Did not realize that hawks would go for them.

    Reply

  5. Ken: I have see a crow flying away with a garter snake as well. Apparently the snake’s stench gland is no deterrent to some predators.

    Reply

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