Raptor no more

Dead raptor discovered on the bank of the Capitol Lakes in Baton Rouge. Moment of fear that it might be one of the Peregrine Falcons...but I believe it to be a juvenile Cooper's Hawk that was often seen in this area. What does a bird of prey fall victim to? Due to the extensive decomposition, it's impossible to tell if there were wounds. It might have starved...and frankly, given the number of house sparrows in the immediate vicinity, if that's the case, it's probably better that this bird was removed from the gene pool!

Back of bird


With ruler for size reference


Closeup of head


Talon clutching leaves


Front of bird


Closer view of tail