Wing Prints in the Snow

Birds that spend time on the ground during winter might leave wing prints in the snow. The snow needs to be an optimal softness and texture to record the imprint. The bird needs to cooperate and sit still with enough wing pressure to make the impression.

The photos below shows the wing print and snow burrow of a Gray Partridge.

The photos below were created by Canada Geese resting by the side of the Elbow River.

The photo below shows a Northern Goshawk wing print. I came across the raptor on a hiking trail. The hawk was feeding on a small animal with grey fur. The hawk used the talons to pin the animal on the ground and the wings to keep the body stable, while the beak tore away portions of the prey.