Harris's Hawks

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6. If you aren't familiar with Harris Hawks, you MUST investigate them...

They hunt as a family unit, and coordinate their attacks. The dominant bird is the female of the group. While hunting, mostly desert smaller prey, she will direct the birds to scare the prey under a bush, into a tree, etc.

Then she will send one of the most junior members of the group to flush the prey out, while the rest of the group waits above to await their meal. They feed according to the most senior members first, while the others await their turn.

One of the most amazing facts is they don't quit hunting until every member, even the most junior has had their fill.

If you ever get to Tucson, you MUST go to the Desert Museum west of town. They have a raptor show once or twice a day, we were fortunate to see the Harris Hawks during the show. It is one of the most spectacular shows I've ever seen.

Besides this show, the museum is a 5-6 hour must see for anyone interested in the desert, the wildlife and the plants and history of this area.

Absolutely one of the best exhibits we've seen in over 7 years of full timing RV'ing.

Been there multiple times, will go back again.