I've been painting at my parents house the last week, and have had a visitor that seems to enjoy just hanging out and watching. Many times flying to a perch on the deck railing or fence to get a better vantage point to watch me paint, or my mom work in the garden. Not at all concerned with us being as close as 1 foot from him at times. I have my suspicions as to what species he/she is, but would like a more informed opinion. Judging by his size/demeanor I'm sure he is a juvenile. "Maxwell" as my girlfriends daughter has named him seems to be quite healthy, and just...friendly.

Sorry about the less than perfect video, but I was using my phone.

Link is here http://s175.photobucket.com/albums/w141/cmw55337/?action=view&current=VIDEO_003.flv

http://s175.photobucket.com/albums/w141/cmw55337/?action=view&current=VIDEO_003.flv

Incredible!! That's a sharp shinned juvie (http://www.peregrinefund.org/explore_raptors/hawks/sshnhawk.html) that has taken up residence in the back yard. Incredible that you were able to get that close without spoking the bird. I think that the reason that I love roughfishing on the river is that I get the opportunity to see Falcons, Eagles and Ospreys while i'm wetting a line!! Thanks for sharing.

Awesome video - I love raptors and I think it safe to say you are one of the fortunate few to get to see one up close like that in the wild. Very neat!

Looks like you got a new pest control system. Great looking bird.

VERY COOL.

SO COOL!

Thanks for sharing.