HI Tweeters:

In response to Jon Anderson's comments on the hawk photos, I can understand
how one might think they are Swainson's Hawks, particularly rufous morphs.
However, they are very definitely western morphs of Redtailed Hawk. Note
the dark throat, clear breast and dark belly band which you would not
expect in Swainsons. Rufous Swainson's could have a dark belly but would
have a lighter throat and not a uniform reddish tail. Also, the cere is not
as extensively yellow as you would find in Swainson's.
On some photos, you can pick up the red flush in the tail feathers.

Also, a more subtle trait, is the more powerful, ferocious look to the head
and face. Swainson's has a much more gentle look, more like a Rough-legged.

I think the serpent may be a Western Rattlesnake.

Cheers

Rick Howie
Kamloops, BC
rick.howie at shaw.ca