> We assume the hawk is opportunistic and would eat whatever it could
> catch. We are just not used to thinking that it could catch a shorebird.
> Any thoughts on how unusual this is?

The Red-tails here in New York City catch a variety of birds on the wing,
from Rock Doves to Cardinals to Woodcocks. As far as I know, no one has
seen one grab anything smaller than the Cardinal (we're glad they leave
our warblers alone).

Happy bird-day,
Ken

Ken Gale
New York City
nuffsaid at escape.com