Close encounters can happen almost anywhere in San Francisco.
As a photographer I'm happy and amazed at how comfortable some birds get in an urban setting. In the countryside it is a simple matter to relocate but the city offers limited green space and the birds learn to figure out what the real threats are.
Alta Plaza Park used to be a great spot to see hunting hawks up close but I think things have changed. It used to have a resident Redtail every year but I haven't seen one lately.
Departure.
Arrival.
This image may be a repost but it fits with the theme and is one of my favorites. This is a Red-shouldered Hawk hunting rats in the Presidio.
It isn't just raptors that reside in the city. Great Blue Herons are another "bird of prey" that make a living here too. (CLICK HERE) More tomorrow...