Wintry weather has the songbirds flocking to feeders, looking for the handouts that help them survive winter. It's that predictable behavior that makes them vulnerable to the birds of prey that also call this area home. A small flock of mourning doves narrowly escaped the diving attack of this cooper's hawk at the photographer's bird feeder Wednesday. It took the hawk a full minute to collect itself after missing its prey and crashing into the ground, giving the photographer enough time to capture this shot. This year's discarded Christmas tree and several thick ornamental bushes provide plenty of cover near the feeder. And the birds will need it. The hawk soars overhead or perches nearby daily.

Hooftallen Photo