This time of the year many younger raptors are in heavy molt; getting rid of last years feathers and replacing them with fresh new ones. With all the raptors I get to see on a daily basis out at our curlew research sites, I have been able to collect quite a collection of these ratty-looking raptors over the past few weeks. Even though these birds are in pretty rough shape, they still are beautiful; to me at least! Check out the photos below to see what I mean!
Swainson's Hawk - light type juvenile
Swainson's Hawk - light type juvenile
Golden Eagle - subadult
Swainson's Hawk - light type juvenile
Swainson's Hawk - light type juvenile