Red-tailed Hawk

I am thankful for many things, and at this moment it is that there is a large picture window in my studio and that my peripheral vision remains good. (wink) At the edge of the property, high atop one of the Douglas Fir branches, this beautiful fella decided to pay me a visit.

The bird has an honor that man does not have. Man lives in the traps of his abdicated laws and traditions but the birds live according to the natural law of God who causes the earth to turn around the sun.

~ Kahlil Gibran

Followup note: I have made a correction to the post following comments from Randy and Curbstone Valley, and after reviewing many photos from other sources. I thought the hawk to be a young Red-shouldered, but in fact it appears he is a Red-tailed Hawk. Thank you Randy and Clare. Aren't internet friends wonderful?