Just moments prior to this photo, the hawk was walking around, "wandering the trail" until Vlahakis and his dog approached. The hawk moved upslope on the Lake View side (where the video below begins), then flew up to the top of the big tree moments later.
With over an inch of rain since Friday, it's not surprising to see a Red Tailed Hawk on the ground. Gophers clearing their holes of mud are an easy target. It is amazing to catch any of it on video as Vlahakis did. In the past, we've had one Red Tail who's preferred method of hunting seemed to be walking around on the ground. This may be the same hawk, coincidence or an injured raptor.
Video: Gary Vlahakis, January 1, 2017. Red Car Canyon.
If it is an injured hawk, take video and photos of its behavior. If you see a hawk walking or struggling around on the ground, DO NOT approach it unless you are working with a trained wildlife rescuer. Ojai Raptor Center guided us through several Red Tail rescues in the past. If it is injured, it may hang around the same general area for a few days, so be alert and keep your dogs on a leash. Email me immediately if you see the hawk on the ground in the canyon between Lake View and Corralitas: redcarproperty@gmail.com
