female Northern Harriers and female Merlins apparently migrate ahead of the males . These and other patterns are doubtless survival strategies , though the exact purposes can only be hypothesized .
In our area the Cooper Hawk , Red Shouldered Hawk , Red-tailed Hawk , and Kestrels remain year round . This is also true for the Barn Owl , Barred Owl , Great Horned Owl and the Screech Owl . In the summer you have the opportunity to see the Mississippi Kite and the Common Nighthawk , while in the winter the Sharpshinned Hawk , Northern Harrier and the majestic Bald Eagle migrate into our area .
Regardless of the timing , the spectacle of fall migration is one of the highlights of the natural year . As we watch the rivers of raptors flowing south , we are reminded once again of the glory and wonder of the natural world around us .
Bald Eagle
NOVEMBER 2017 PARKER COUNTY TODAY
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