On a recent hike through open grasslands with a few conifers mixed in we had a close encounter with this Northern Harrier who must of been defending a nearby nest. They were making plenty of noise and circling around above us as we walked the trail below. Occasionally they would dive bomb us flying straight overhead but never actually trying to make contact with us. We just pushed on through their territory walking a bit faster with each dive bombing pass yet pausing to watch this beautiful birds pass so close. Once we had ventured out of their space peace was had for all.
nature has no boss 
That kind of photo with a 100 mm, surely meant he did get close! Thanks for sharing!
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HI and he did get close and it was a bit dicey as to just how close he was going to get.
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Memorable.
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Yes indeed.
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That’s an amazing view, Mike!
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Hi Tanja, it was quite a view and we were not sure wether to photograph or duck for cover. Funs tuff indeed.
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I am glad you lived to tell the story-and show the picture! 🙂
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We made and have a story to tell and each time we tell it it will be just a little bit bigger bird getting just a little bit close for sure. 🙂
Have a wonderful weekend.
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Such an intense gaze – looks like he meant business!
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Hi Eliza he did seem to be saying take a hike and not the hike we were planning to take.
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Gorgeous capture and what an experience!
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HI Ellen, it was a fun experience and a rare personal encounter with a raptor in the wild.
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