The Prairie Falcon is a common bird of the west preferring rocky outcrops where a perch high above the land makes a wonderful observation point. I wanted the bird to be a rest, yet vigilant catching the breeze sweeping across the outcrop. He is also calling out marking his territory. The chest feathers are plumped up providing warmth from the breeze as he sits in a relaxed, yet ready pose. I wanted the viewer to get the impression that this bird is a master of its environment, calm but ready.