Tammy C.
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Incredible Wildlife Sighting in Franklin Park — Juvenile Hawk in the Heart of DC!!
If you enjoy birdwatching, nature walks, or wildlife sightings in Washington, DC, Franklin Park delivered a truly unforgettable moment this Friday morning. At 7:10 AM on 11/21, I saw something descending from the sky at full speed, and I stopped just to figure out what was happening.
After a few moments of watching and waiting, a juvenile hawk made its arrival — wings wide, expanded, and powerful, gliding in with absolute precision. I was genuinely amazed by what I was seeing. It landed in the park instantly scanning the ground, clearly in full hunt mode.
And honestly? It picked the right spot.
Franklin Park has plenty of rats scurrying around at that hour and very active squirrels, giving this young hawk more than enough prey options to practice its hunting skills.
Seeing a juvenile hawk in a downtown DC park at sunrise was a rare and stunning wildlife moment — a reminder that urban nature is alive and thriving right in the city center.
If you’re into urban birding, early-morning wildlife activity, or peaceful nature spots, Franklin Park is absolutely worth a visit. I will keep my eyes peeled for more unexpected encounters.