Kingbird takes piggyback on predatory hawk

HOW far would you go to get rid of an unwelcome visitor? This is the moment a tiny kingbird decided it was time to see off a potential predator circling his home.
In a bold move, the aggressive little bird launched itself at the fearsome red-tailed hawk and sank its talons into the larger bird’s back.
The feisty kingbird attacked the hawk as it ventured too near its nest, dive-bombing it relentlessly, before jumping on for a piggyback, clinging to it as it soared through the air.
It enjoyed the ride for a few seconds before resuming the attack, pecking the hawk’s head in fury. The hawk, which is typically up to 50 times bigger than the kingbird, was powerless to shake its rider off and shrieked until it finally flew away to look for easier pickings elsewhere. The incredible moment was captured by amateur photographer Pat Gaines, 41, at Bonny Lake park in Colorado, United States.
Pat, who lives in Denver, Colorado, said: ‘I’ve never seen red tail hawks harassed so much - the hawks I saw were constantly being chased by a variety of smaller birds. ‘This kingbird perched between the wings on the hawk’s back for several seconds, and pecked at its head as the hawk flew away screaming. ‘Red tail hawks are known for their piercing, iconic scream and the hawks I heard at Bonny Lake sounded hoarse - like they were all screamed out. ‘It is common to see smaller, faster birds dive-bombing and harassing hawks, but this is the first time I’ve seen one ridden bareback.’ – Link...