Air Assault

I find it interesting that small birds can harass larger (often predatory) birds that could easily put them in their place. I don't know if they just see the little fellas as nuisances, or if the small birds are just so fast and maneuverable that the larger ones can't really react fast enough. I do pity the little ones if they ever let one of these guys snag 'em.

This is a Mississippi Kite, a raptor - one of the eagle and hawk family. It is very much like a falcon in appearance. They are quite capable of inflicting substantial injury, not necessarily by its powerful beak, but with its very formidable talons.

This kite takes a break to watch for prey. As it does, a mockingbird decides it doesn't like the kite hanging around. The mockingbird flies in from behind to urge the kite to leave.

The kite doesn't budge, and the mockingbird persists.

After a few more attacks, the kite has enough of this pest and leaves right after this shot was taken.

Amazing! The mockingbird doesn't seem to care that the kite eats small mammals and......birds!

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