Chirps and Cheeps

While I was working at my desk, I was interrupted by the sound of a huge rush of wings.  Birds flushed in an instant and were flying helter skelter everywhere.  The ensuing hysteria was mostly filled with Blue Jay screams.

I went out to look in the yard and saw an adult Cooper's Hawk on the ground pinning down a young Blue Jay.  I went back for my camera to capture the disturbing moment - and then watched while the coop took off with its young victim.  Sometimes, I must admit, the Blue Jays seem to scream and yell for no apparent reason and I often wish they would just be quiet.  Today, though, my heart went out to them and I couldn't begrudge their protests and outrage.  Nature is harsh.