Mixed feelings

This morning I was enjoying watching a huge flock of Red Polls at the feeder out front.  One minute it would be feather-to-feather crowding at the feeder, and the next second, they would all fly off.

I was enjoying a lazy morning of Scrabble, Words With Friends and reading when I saw a big shadow fly by the window.

Much to my delight and yet much to my concern for the little birds, I saw this hawk sitting on a branch not far from the feeders.

I am not sure, but I think it is a Sharp-shinned Hawk, although, it could be a Cooper's Hawk.
Both are common in this area.
These photos were taken through the window and from a distance, so not tack sharp.

 The Audubon bird book says that the Sharp-shinned & Cooper's hawk are similar to a Northern Goshawk.

 It also states that all three of those birds are agile in pursuing smalls birds through trees and bushes.

 So, while I was excited to see this big fella, I am not happy that he was hunting at my feeders.

 He flew off, but didn't go far, I found him sitting on this branch in the backyard.

Then he flew.

I was trying to get as many pictures as I could, blurry or not, for identification.

He did a fly over and then headed North.

I think his square tail also points to this being a Sharp-shinned hawk. 

Luckily the little birds are already back at the feeders.

I have not seen any evidence that Mr. Hawk was successful hunting here.

Nature is so amazing.