They're fearless. And they're survivors. Every time I see one my heart skips a beat. I know he's looking for a treat.

He's a hunter. He dove in after his prey. The attack was quiet and calculated. The victim's future was ill-fated.

I watched him. It was fascinating. This time there was a miscalculation. Perhaps it was a misinterpretation.

I believe it was a Cooper's hawk. My handsome bird of prey was in dire straits. Being trapped inside mesh wire was not his plan. I said "I have to rescue him, if I can."

He was clearly in distress. My heart went out to him. I didn't think there was much time. I felt like not doing my best would be a crime.

Pulling the mesh wire apart was arduous. My stately Cooper's hawk was wearing down. I had to work feverishly to free him. Suddenly it wasn't looking so grim.

And finally he was free. He took flight. I was ecstatic. It almost seemed dramatic.

He never looked back. That wonderful Cooper's hawk of mine. Perhaps it was just a day in the life.
Maybe we'll cross paths again in the after-life.