On Tue, 21 Mar 1995, Russell Rogers wrote:

> After looking at the Pigeon, we went to Lewindowski Road, near
Sunnyside. As usual, the
> Ferruginous Hawks were tending to there nest. We were not sure if there
> were eggs on the nest or if they were repairing the nest. In my oppinion,
> Furruginous Hawks are about the finest birds invented by nature. They If
> any of you have never had the good fortune to see these birds, reconmend
> that you drop what you are doing, grab your binculars, kick the cat, jump
> in your car and go see these things! Now!

I recommend you heed most of this advice.

But please bear in mind as you go seeking ferruginous hawks in early spring
that researchers are very concerned about this species abandoning nest
sites due to disturbance, particularly during nest building and
incubation periods. Maintain a distance of at least 250 m to the nest;
this should prevent abandonment by most healthy ferruginous hawks during
years when prey are abundant. If they are reacting to you, move away.

About 50 ferrug territories have been active in Washington during the
past three years. This species is listed as State Threatened and is a
candidate category 2 for Federal listing under the ESA.

And Russell is right: they are gorgeous, well-deserving of their
standard name, *Buteo regalis*.

Scott Richardson
Olympia
richasar at dfw.wa.gov