The ranch bird feeders fell quiet and were abandoned. Quietly, about 4-5 feet away was a large bird that at first appeared to be a buzzard. One paw-step closer and it was a large raptor. Fearless of me and Papa.
After a significant time next to us on the ground, it's mighty wing span lifted it and flew a few feet over to the top of a telephone pole...revealing what was about to be served for supper--a pack-rat.
As this huge bird of prey began eating--oblivious to Papa's camera flash--we observed something very special and rare. This raptor had no right "foot." The left "foot" held down supper, while it's wings provided balance atop the pole while the victim was consumed.
The next morning we were awoken by the screaming-pinging back and forth of the raptor, talking back and forth to another bird of prey across the ranch property.
I am glad I am not a little dog.
