My first spotting of this bird was at the Yolo Bypass auto loop, right off the I-80 in between Davis and Sacramento. I was completely enamored by the sight of a bird flying high, and hovering perfectly in place on a day with a moderate breeze (probably around 14-16mph). I’ve never seen a bird hover with so much control, apart from a hummingbird, so it was hypnotizing to see it soar, and come to a complete stop mid-flight. What’s more is it’s diving form (not captured here) was awesome—it spreads its wings completely at a pitched angle, descended heaven-like, and did so without flap or falter. It was like watching a single feather elegantly falling in slow motion.
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